Zucchiolo®: A New Vegetable Winning Over North American Kitchens

A new vegetable called Zucchiolo® is making its debut in the U.S.and Canadian produce market — and it’s already turning heads. Broughtexclusively by Malena Produce, Zucchiolo originates from Southern Spainand stands out because it is neither a zucchini nor a cucumber. Instead, it isa distinct, naturally developed variety that has gained rapid attention acrossEurope for its flavor, versatility, and culinary performance.

Zucchiolo can be enjoyed fresh or cooked, offering a crisp bitewhen raw and a tender, slightly sweet profile when sautéed, grilled, orroasted. It works beautifully in salads, stir-fries, bowls, and tapas-styledishes.  Zucchiolo combines a mild,refreshing taste with strong nutritional benefits — naturally rich in fiber,vitamins, and antioxidants.

After winning the Innovation Award at Fruit Logistica Berlin 2024,Zucchiolo quickly expanded across several European countries including Spain,France, Italy, Germany, The Netherlands, and Denmark. Today, Malena Produce isproud to be the first company introducing Zucchiolo to North America,reinforcing our commitment to bringing new, high-quality produce options tochefs and foodservice partners.

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Early response has been overwhelmingly positive

Since its arrival, interest has grown among kitchens looking to offerguests something fresh, modern, and visually appealing. Customers who have already tested Zucchiolohighlight:

·     Its versatility across menu applications

·     Its premium appearance and platepresentation

·     Its approachable flavor, which makes it easyfor consumers to adopt

Many chefs appreciate that it “behaves like a zucchini, looks like aspecialty cucumber, and delivers a completely new eating experience.”

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A smart addition for menus in 2026

As operators plan for the year ahead, Zucchiolo offers a meaningfulopportunity to differentiate menus, introduce innovation, and surpriseguests — without adding complexity in the kitchen.

If you’re exploring new products for 2026 and would like to considerZucchiolo for your program, we’d love to connect. Our team can share availabilitydetails, usage ideas, and support new menu trials.

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👉 Contact us at  — we’ll be happy toarrange product samples or discuss supply opportunities.info@malenaproduce.com

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