Abundant in warmer weather months, zucchini is a delicious and versatile squash (per University of Kentucky). However, the abundance of it during its season may leave you with more squash than you know what to do with. Luckily, storing zucchini for later is a simple process that will keep you satiated long after bringing the squash home.
Keeping zucchini fresh begins with selection, whether you're planning on eating them that day or storing them for later. The Oregonian states that you should look for zucchinis that are 6 to 8 inches long and that are still relatively thin. In addition to the squash's length and width, look for one with a slightly moist stem that is over an inch long. The skin should be bright, glossy, and somewhat spiky (via Utah State University). Also, avoid zucchini with any cuts, bruising, or blemishes (per UC San Diego School of Medicine).
Squash blossoms are also a delicious part of the plant. That said, they don't keep well in a fridge or freezer. According to Experts, if you're preparing squash blossoms, plan to eat them that same day. Here are some helpful tips for when you are ready to store your zucchinis.
Storing zucchini in the fridge is a quick and simple way to keep zucchini fresh. Following a few easy steps will ensure the texture and flavor of your zucchini stays intact. First, keep the zucchini whole until you're prepared to use it. Also, keep the skin as dry as possible, you should avoid washing zucchini prior to storage.
You should store a whole zucchini in a paper bag, allowing air to circulate and keep the squash even fresher. Then, put the bag in the crisper, ensuring an extra dry climate. Use the zucchini within 3-4 days to be on the safe side. If the zucchini's skin becomes wrinkled, it's time to either cook it up or freeze it to prolong its life.
The only drawback of freezing zucchini is that the texture is softer. So, freezing will work splendidly for anything cooked or baked like pasta sauce or zucchini bread, but avoid using frozen zucchini for fresh recipes like salads
Properly freezing will preserve the zucchini's taste and freshness. It's best to slice your zucchini and quickly blanch the slices before freezing. This process maintains the squash's texture, flavor, and nutrients since blanching slows zucchini's enzymes from aging that would otherwise continue to mature, even when frozen. Store the pieces in freezer bags after squeezing the air out, and date each bag. Your frozen zucchini should last up to three months.
Should zucchini blossoms be refrigerated?
How to store: Zucchini flowers should be refrigerated tightly sealed. How to prepare: If you don’t want to fry them, cut zucchini flowers into shreds and add them to a risotto or a quesadilla filling.
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