How to Use Zucchini

Use zucchini in multiple dishes.

Zucchini, the long green vegetable that looks like an over-sized cucumber, has many uses in all kinds of recipes. Normally the vegetable grows in the most unreliable weather conditions, from drought to an over abundance of rain; nothing seems to stop the zucchini sprouts and vines from spreading across your garden. Since the vegetable grows prolifically, you need to find inventive ways to keep it from going to waste.

Things You'll Need

• Peeler
• Shredder or food chopper
• Paring knife
• Olive oil
• Flour
• Seasonings
• Paper towel
• Plate
• Freezer bags

Instructions

1. Peel the outer green skin from the zucchini. Shred the peeled vegetable inside a food processor or use a kitchen shredding tool. Place the shredded zucchini in bread or muffin batter for baking.

2. Slice unpeeled zucchini into 1/2 inch slices with a paring knife. Brush each side with olive oil. Grill the zucchini slices on a stove-top grill or outdoor barbecue for 1 to 2 minutes on each side.

3. Mix 1 cup flour with seasonings of your choice, including basil, crushed red pepper or cilantro. Coat sliced zucchini with the flour mixture. Heat 3 to 4 tbsp. olive oil in a skillet. Carefully place the zucchini slices into the hot oil. Turn the slices after 2 minutes, or when they become brown on the bottom. Place a paper towel on a plate. Remove the slices from the skillet onto the paper towel to soak up excess oil. Salt the slices when hot; if desired, and serve with sour cream.

4. Dice fresh zucchini into 1-inch squares and place into salads or serve on a relish tray. Place diced zucchini in vegetable soup.

5. Chop zucchini into large 3 to 4-inch chunks and place into quart-sized bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bags, or use special freezer bags with a suction tool that removes excess air. Freeze the zucchini to use later in the season.

Tips & Warnings

• Find special freezer bags and the suction tool in the grocery aisle with other plastic storage bags.

References

• 5 Dollar Dinners: How to Use Up Zucchini
• Savvy Housekeeping: Five Ways To Use Up Zucchini

Resources

• What Is Your Favorite Way To Use Up Zucchini