Learn how to freeze shredded zucchini for muffins, breads, pasta and more! No blanching needed. This is a great way to preserve the extra zucchini you have on hand and enjoy it all year long!
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Why This Method Works
When it comes to summer vegetables, zucchini tends to be one we cook with a lot. I bake it into muffins that my kids love to snack on. I add it to pasta with a creamy sauce for a light summer dinner. It's delicious with chicken in my one-pot ratatouille dish. But eventually, I end up with too much zucchini on my hands and need to freeze it. The process is very simple and quick. So if you are like me, and like to stock up with seasonal vegetables, try freezing shredded zucchini. You will be glad you did!
How to freeze shredded zucchini?
The process is very simple. Gather your zucchini, a box grater, measuring cup, and freezer bags. I use 1-quart bags.
- Wash the vegetables first under cool water. Dry by patting with a kitchen towel.
- Trim both ends of each zucchini.
- If you are using store-bought zucchini, the skin can be waxy so I always peel most of it. If the zucchini is straight from your garden, feel free to leave it on.
- Shred the zucchini on the large hole side of the box grater.
- Place on paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Measure out 1 or 2 cup portions and place them in freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible.
- Write the date of freezing the zucchini on the bag. Place bags in a freezer.
Frozen zucchini can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months.
Can you freeze zucchini without blanching?
Blanching (brief immersion of food in hot liquid like boiling water) is recommended for freezing slices or chunks of zucchini. Shredded zucchini does not need to be blanched, just shred, squeeze out excess moisture, place in a freezer bag or container and freeze.
What can you use frozen zucchini for?
Shredded frozen zucchini is great for making muffins, quick breads, and cakes if you are looking for a baking recipe. For savory options, try it in soups, pasta and casseroles!
How to defrost shredded zucchini?
This will depend on what dish you are planning to use it in. If you are adding it to a soup or a sauce that is already cooking, you can add shredded zucchini still frozen at the end of cooking.
If you want to add it to a casserole that will be baked or use it in breads, muffins, etc., place the frozen zucchini in the fridge overnight. I place the freezer bag on a plate so the moisture doesn't leak all over the fridge shelf.
More delicious recipes with zucchini:
If you like this recipe and make it, let me know in the comments below! Don't forget to rate it if you enjoyed it!
How to Freeze Zucchini
Equipment
- box grater
- freezer bags
- measuring cup
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
Instructions
- Wash the vegetables first under cool water. Dry by patting with a kitchen towel.
- Trim both ends of each zucchini.
- If you are using store-bought zucchini, the skin can be waxy so I always peel most of it. If the zucchini is straight from your garden, feel free to leave it on.
- Shred the zucchini on the large hole side of the box grater.
- Place shredded zucchinin on a double paper towel or cheese cloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Measure out 1 or 2 cup portions and place them in freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible.
- Write the date of freezing the zucchini on the bag. Place bags in a freezer.
Notes
- Store shredded zucchini in the freezer for up to 4 months.
- I use 1-quart bags to freeze 2-cup portions.
- You can freeze yellow squash following the same method.
- Please note, that the nutrition value can vary depending on what product you use. The information below is an estimate. Always use a calorie counter you are familiar with.
Rita says
After Freezing the zucchini I still have liquid, do I drain it out or use It in The recipe?
Anna says
Hi Rita! If it's a baking recipe, drain the excess liquid. If it's pasta or soup, no draining is necessary. Hope this helps!
Allyssa says
Thank you so much for this idea! Super helpful and really easy to make! Highly recommended!
Jennifer says
A great idea!! Love using our frozen zucchini!
Laura Reese says
What a fantastic way to enjoy garden zucchini all year. So easy.