The zucchini or courgette is a popularly cultivated summer squash which often grows to nearly a meter in length, but which are usually harvested at half that size or less. Zucchini can be dark or light green, and generally have a similar shape to a ridged cucumber, although some round varieties are also available. It can be prepared using a variety of cooking techniques, including steamed, boiled, grilled, stuffed and baked, barbecued, fried, or incorporated in other recipes.