This recipe for sustainable-harvested Red Palm Oil Roasted Zucchini is a delicious and healthy side dish that is vegan and gluten-free. 

red palm oil roasted zucchini in a white bowl with gold forks

What is Red Palm Oil?

Red palm oil comes from a palm oil tree, most often found in Southeast Asia. Red palm oil is a versatile cooking oil that can be a healthy addition to your diet. It is rich in carotenoids, vitamin E, and coenzyme Q10. 

The controversy around red palm oil has to do with the fact that tropical forests are being cut down in certain countries in Southeast Asia to make room for more palm oil trees. The destruction of the tropical forests are also demolishing the natural habitat of the animals the live there, including orangutans.

Sustainable Sources

If you want to add red palm oil into your diet, it’s vitally important to choose a brand that is sustainably sourced. There are several brands available on Amazon; I like the red palm oil from Nutiva.

native red palm oil

To ensure you are choosing a product that is certified to be sustainable, please look for the Palm Done Right label.

palm done right label

Cooking with Red Palm Oil

As mentioned above, red palm oil is really versatile and stable at high heats. You can use it in place of ghee, butter, or coconut oil in most recipes. I personally use it most often when roasted vegetables. 

two tablespoons of red palm oil in a bowl

Recipe Steps

Step One

For this recipe for Red Palm Oil Roasted Zucchini, you only need a few ingredients, including zucchini, dried oregano (or your favorite dried herb, red palm oil, and salt and pepper.

zucchini chopped and ready to be roasted

Step Two

Then, you just need to warm the red palm oil in the microwave or on the stovetop, toss it with the chopped zucchini, and then roast it in a hot oven until it is slightly browned.

zucchini tossed with red palm oil

Step Three

After your zucchini is done cooking, just serve it with your favorite main dish. I think you are really going to love this recipe!

roasted zucchini in a bowl ready to serve

FAQs

What does red palm oil taste like?

It is mild in flavor, although it does have a mild vegetable/savory flavor.

Can I use it in baking? 

Yes, you can! Although, please note that the red palm oil may change the color and flavor of your baked good.

Can I make this dish in an air-fryer?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time to 15 minutes.

Here is the printable recipe:

 

Print
bowl of roasted zucchini with two gold forks

Red Palm Oil Roasted Zucchini

★★★★★

5 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Carrie Forrest, MPH in Nutrition
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x
  • Diet: Vegan
Print Recipe

Description

This recipe for sustainable-harvested Red Palm Oil Roasted Zucchini is a delicious and healthy side dish that is vegan and gluten-free.

Scale

Ingredients

  • 2 large zucchini squash, washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
  • 2 tablespoons red palm oil, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degree F.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  3. Toss the chopped zucchini, herbs, and melted red palm oil in a large bowl and pour onto the baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring once for even cooking.
  5. Serve hot.

Notes

Store any leftovers in a tightly-sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.

  • Category: Side dish
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: red palm oil roasted zucchini, palm oil vegetables, roasting with red palm oil

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