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How to Freeze Zucchini

Learn how to freeze zucchini even though it has a high water content. Enjoy your fresh zucchini all year long using these freezing methods.
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: freezing fresh zucchini, freezing zucchini, How to freeze zucchini

Materials

  • Zucchini as many as you want to freeze

Instructions

Method #1: Freeze Unblanched Zucchini

  • First be sure to wash your zucchini.
  • Cut/slice your zucchini to preferred size for freezing. I like to cut zucchini into 1/2-1/2 inch slices.
  • Place zucchini slices into freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible and then freeze. 
  • Freeze for 6-9 months. Zucchini should stay good for 3-6 months in the freezer. 

Method #2: Freeze Blanched Zucchini

  • Cover a baking sheet (with a lip) with parchment paper. This will keep your zucchini from sticking and make it easy to transfer once frozen. 
  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanching is a method of sticking vegetables into boiling water for 1-2 minutes and then setting into an ice bath. Be sure to get a pot of boiling water on the stove right away so you are not waiting on the water. 
  • Cut your zucchini to preferred size for freezing.
  • Set zucchini into boiling water for 1-2 minutes then remove and place into an ice bath, or run under cold water until cool.
  • Place zucchini onto Prepared Baking Sheet. Set baking sheet with zucchini into the freezer for 1-2 hours. Do not freeze too much longer than 2 hours otherwise zucchini may develop freezer burn.
  • Transfer frozen zucchini into a freezer bag. Once zucchini are in a freezer bag remove as much air as possible and seal. TIP: Don’t forget to label the freezer bag and write an expiration date on the bag. (Today’s date plus 3-6 months).

Method #3: Freeze Shredded Zucchini

  • First be sure to wash your zucchini.
  • Shred zucchini using a food processor or a grater.
  • Use a cheese cloth to wring out as must moisture as you can BEFORE freezing. This will keep the zucchini from becoming a mushy mess after you thaw it.
  • Measure out in 1-2 cup portions and place in a quart sized ziplock freezer bags for storage and then freeze.