Great Zukes!

Zucchini-One of the easiest to grow and most prolific in production. Why not grow this wonderful vegetable. It contains folate,potassium,vitamin A, and vitamin C. Dark green zucchini also has some beta carotene. Well if you do not want to eat it for the nutrients-how about this fact: Because of the high water content, Zucchini are very low in calories- 26 calories per cup in its raw state.
When you a gazillion of these coming in and you have no idea what to do with the-get baking. Zucchini bead is a family favorite. I freeze them for the future. It is awesome having a dozen loaves just waiting for guests, a hostess gift, or an afternoon treat with a cup of tea. This recipe doesn't pretend to be low in calories, but it is very tasty and is a great way to sneak in some nutrition. I know that there are some nutritionists (like my daughter and friends) following this blog. I would appreciate any modifications to this recipe to make it healthier.

Amazing Zucchini Bread

2 cups all purpose flour

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground allspice

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 3/4 cups sugar

1 1/4 cups vegetable or canola oil

3 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla

2 teaspoon grated lemon peel

2 cups (about 2 medium) coarsely grated zucchini (skin and all…seeds can be removed if too large).

1 cup walnuts, toasted, coarsely chopped (about 4 ounces)

Preparation

Preheat oven to 325F. Squeeze out excess liquid from grated zucchini. Butter and flour two 8x4x2 1/2 inch metal loaf pans. Whisk flour, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and baking powder in a medium bowl to blend. Whisk sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla, and lemon peel in large bowl to blend. Whisk in flour mixture. Mix in zucchini and nuts. Pour batter into prepared pans.

Bake breads until a toothpick comes out clean, about 1 hour 15 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes. Turn breads out onto rack and cool completely.