Red Palm Oil Roasted Zucchini

by Carrie Forrest, MPH in Nutrition | May 16, 2020 (updated: 7/7/21)

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

Contents show

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

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.

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.

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

Cooking Tips

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.

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 red palm oil 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.

Is palm oil vegan?

Palm oil is a vegan product. Be sure to purchase a brand that is sustainably-harvested to ensure it does not destroy the habitat of orangutans.

I hope you make this recipe! If you do, please leave a comment and a starred review below.

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