The courgette, a member of the cucumber and melon family. It comes from Central and South America, where it has been eaten for thousands of years.

Courgettes can be dark or light green, and generally have a similar shape to a ridged cucumber, although some round varieties are also available. A related hybrid, the golden zucchini is a deep yellow or orange color.

The courgette is usually cooked and presented as a savory dish or accompaniment.