How to Freeze Zucchini
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When you have an abundance of zucchini, no need to let it go to waste–freeze it! Here is how to freeze zucchini so you can use it months down the road in delicious baked goods.
Why Freeze Zucchini?
If you’re someone who loves to grow zucchini, you know that it’s a very fast-and-furious vegetable.
In fact, it’s not uncommon to end up with more zucchini than you know what to do with! One great way to preserve your fresh zucchini is to freeze it.
Because of the high water content in zucchini, it won’t keep its firm texture through the freezing and thawing process, blanched or not. This is why I skip over the blanching step that many others recommend.
If find that it’s not worth the extra time and effort–especially when you’re going to use the shredded zucchini in baked goods like Healthy Zucchini Muffins, Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread, or Zucchini Pancakes.
Tip: How to Pick the Best Zucchini
When it comes to freezing zucchini, you want to choose zucchinis that are young and tender. These zucchinis are less likely to have tough skins or large seeds. Look for zucchinis that are about 6-8 inches long and have a diameter of 2-3 inches. Bigger is not always better.
That being said, if you have a large one, don’t toss it. Shred it and use it in baked goods!
How to Freeze Zucchini
Like freezing green onions, freezing zucchini is super easy.
- Wash – Give the zucchini a good rinse in the sink to remove any dirt or debris.
- Shred – Cut off the stem end and the opposite end of the zucchini. Using a box grater or a food processor with a shredding attachment, shred the zucchini by running it over the large holes of the grater or through the shredding attachment.
- Squeeze the water out – Place the shredded zucchini between paper towels or in a tea towel and press as much water out as possible.
- Freeze – Place shredded zucchini in airtight freezer bags or freezer containers. Pick a freezer container that minimizes air exposure.
When you want to use your frozen zucchini, let it safely thaw, squeeze any extra moisture out and use as directed.
Freezing Tip: Measure Out the Portions
Before freezing the zucchini, measure it out in small portions and write it on the bag.
I like to freeze my zucchini in two-cup increments because that seems to be a common amount for a recipe. It can be hard to break apart once it’s frozen so you don’t want to put a ton into one big bag.
FAQs
I found that one medium zucchini ends up being about two cups of shredded zucchini.
Much of this depends on how it is packaged. A general rule is the less air, the better. If the shredded zucchini is packaged well, it will easily last 8-10 months before the quality starts to diminish.
I may be in the minority on this one but I never do. While some say blanching can preserve some color and texture, I don’t find the extra step worth it. Especially since I only use frozen zucchini in baked goods.
Zucchini Recipes
Here are recipes that would work great for using up that frozen zucchini!
First time with frozen shredded zucchini. I thawed a bag a week ago and didn’t get to use it. It’s been in refrigerator. Ok to bake with today or toss it?
I’d give it the smell and feel test. If it smells ok and isn’t slimy, squeeze out any extra liquid and use in a baked good.
My favorite way to use them up is in a zucchini and pea soup. Simple but sooooo delish.!
Sounds wonderful Tracy! Thanks for sharing.
To shred zucchini I use the blade in the food processor and pulse until the pieces are tiny and same size. I forget to squeeze out the water so I usually try to do that after I thaw before I put it in a recipe
Those are great tips Amber. Thank you!
My question is : after you shred do you have to squeeze out excess water before you freeze it?
I never do and it’s worked fine!
Has anyone ever frozen breaded and/or plain baked chips, spears? Also, regarding the frozen slices of zucs, wouldn’t it possible be okay if you were putting them in a casserole, stir-fry, etc.? Anything that is heated?
I made the mistake a few years ago of freezing all of my zucchini and yellow squash as slices. When I thawed them out they were complete mush and disintegrated when I added them to whatever it was I baked them in.
Crystal stole my question. We’ve had really good luck with zucchini, squash, eggplant, etc. But no way to freeze it to use as just zucchini planks or slices.
I’m looking at a freeze dryer to get.more out of my seasonal veggies.
Yep! That is why I shred it. I only use it for baking after it’s frozen.
Can you store it just sliced too? I have a ton I don’t even know what to do with!
Honestly, I don’t think you’ll like the results of doing that. Zucchini has a very high water content and when unthawed, it will be pretty mushy. I’d recommend using it pretty much for only baking of mixed into another dish after freezing it.
Can you freeze your zucchini whole?
Lori, I don’t think that either of us have tried that. Because of the high water content, I think you’d be left with a mushy mess when you thaw it in order to shred or dice it later.
How long does it last in the freezer?
Up to 3 months for sure, but from my experience it can last much longer. REmember to seal it very tight and press out any air. Air is your enemy in the freezer.
I have froze zoodles in the past and they were perfect when I thawed and heated them up.
Good to know!
I freeze zucchini in slices. After I slice them, I let them dry out then put them in freezer bags. They cook up great not mushy at all.
Hi,
Can I cut up into Zoodles and freeze them? Will I still be able to use them as a pasta replacement after thawing?
I’ve never tried that, so I’m not sure I’m qualified to answer. Sounds like a decent idea though!
I’ve heard you can dehydrate zoodles. Freezing would probably give mush.
Our zucchini did well this summer, too! I’ve made 16 loaves of zucchini bread already and have enough shredded for 12 more cups in the freezer. I freeze it just like you do!
Thank you for the advice. I think, I will do that. We are blessed with an abundant zucchini crop this year, they grow faster than we can consume them, so I am looking for alternatives.
Plus those zucchini muffins and zucchini bread recipes look good. I happen to have many takers for baked goods in my house. 🙂
We had a TON of zucchini this year as well! I just made some zucchini bread (in recipe index) and it turned out great. Good luck!