What to do with too Much Zucchini

If you planted more than your fair share of zucchini this year, then the jokes about “too much zucchini” are probably all too real for you and your family. There are things you can do with your larger-than-life bounty besides leaving plants by your neighbor’s front door. We’ve found a few ideas that are easy to try and always delicious.

Add it to Your Salads

Sliced or diced, zucchini is a nice addition to any salad. While slicing them like a cucumber is the preferred method, slicing them lengthwise can add some fun to any green medley.

Put it in Spaghetti

Make your spaghetti as usual, then add a helping of shredded zucchini to the bowl. You’ll like the way it adds some green to your meal.

Freeze It

Choose small to medium size zucchini. The smaller they are, the easier they are to handle and the less seedy and dry they will be. Then, simply grate the plant with a cheese grater. Fill a freezer-safe bag with 2 cups of shredded zucchini. Be careful to push out as much air as you possibly can before sealing the bag. Then mark the bag with the current date. You’ll want to us the zucchini within the next 12 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw and drain the zucchini before adding it into your recipe.

Make Butter out of It

To make your own zucchini butter for toast or as a spread, grate 2 pounds of zucchini and drain it in a colander for several minutes. Then, use a deep skillet to heat ¼ cup olive oil and add 2 minced shallots and 2 crushed cloves of garlic. Sauté the mixture briefly and add in the zucchini. Cook and stir over medium heat until zucchini becomes spreadable. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds zucchini
• ¼ cups olive oil (or butter)
• 2 minced shallots
• 2 crushed garlic cloves
• Salt and pepper

Make Butter out of It

To make your own zucchini butter for toast or as a spread, grate 2 pounds of zucchini and drain it in a colander for several minutes. Then, use a deep skillet to heat ¼ cup olive oil and add 2 minced shallots and 2 crushed cloves of garlic. Sauté the mixture briefly and add in the zucchini. Cook and stir over medium heat until zucchini becomes spreadable. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 small zucchini
• 2 cups basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Coastal Has Your Garden Tools

Stop by your Northwest owned and operated Coastal Farm & Ranch for all of your garden tools, whether you’re nearing the end of your harvest or just getting started. You’ll find the people and products you need to get the most from your garden, including fertilizers, and sprinklers, as well as critter traps and diverters to scare away the birds.