What can you make with courgette for dinner?

Courgette contains a lot of water, so high heat and enough space in the pan matter. In a stir-fry, cook it briefly so it browns rather than steams; in a casserole or pie, avoid adding extra liquid and let the dish cook uncovered if it looks loose. For fritters, squeezing out grated courgette before mixing is the most important step.

Courgette works with strong, savoury partners because its flavour is mild. Tomato, garlic, herbs, peppers, aubergine and rocket give it contrast, while eggs, cheese, chicken, turkey, salmon, prawns, lentils and meat provide substance. It also suits pasta, rice, potatoes, flatbreads and pastry, which help turn a quick-cooking vegetable into a complete dinner.

Start with the format you both want, such as pasta, a tray bake, a stir-fry, a pie or a pizza, then choose the dish that matches the stronger preference for protein or vegetables. Courgette is useful here because it can sit alongside chicken, turkey, fish or meat, or carry a meal with beans, lentils, eggs or cheese. Nomme keeps only the dishes both of you select, so the final shortlist reflects a shared dinner rather than one person's compromise.