How Long Does Zucchini Last in the Fridge? It’s a versatile squash available year-round, but to make the most of it, proper storage is essential. Whether you picked up a bunch of zucchinis at the grocery store or harvested them from your zucchini plants, learning the best way to store them can help extend their shelf life and preserve their quality.
Here’s everything you need to know about how long zucchini lasts in the fridge and how to store it for future use.
How Long Does Zucchini Last in the Fridge?
When stored properly, whole fresh zucchini can last up to 1-2 weeks in the fridge. Raw zucchini is best kept in the crisper drawer, where the cool temperature and proper air circulation can help maintain its freshness.
Zucchini slices or pre-cut zucchini should be used within 3-4 days, as they tend to lose moisture faster. If you notice rotten spots or mushy zucchini, it’s a sign that the zucchini is past its prime.
Storing Whole Zucchini
The best way to store whole zucchini in the fridge is by placing it in a ventilated plastic bag or a paper bag. These allow for enough air circulation, which helps prevent moisture buildup and extends the shelf life of your zucchini.
Avoid washing whole zucchini before storing, as excess moisture can speed up spoilage. If you need to wash it first, be sure to dry it thoroughly with a paper towel before placing it in the fridge.
Storing Cut or Pre-Cut Zucchini
If you’ve sliced or prepped zucchini, place it in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. This method works well for zucchini slices, zucchini noodles, or grated zucchini, and it helps maintain their quality for 3-4 days. For the best results, make sure to store zucchini in a single layer to prevent it from becoming mushy.
How to Freeze Zucchini
Freezing zucchini is a great way to store it for later use, especially during zucchini season when you might have an excessive amount of zucchini. To freeze zucchini properly, follow these simple steps:
First, wash and cut the zucchini into thin slices or small pieces. Blanch the zucchini in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes to preserve its texture and color.
Immediately transfer the zucchini to a large bowl filled with ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. This is often referred to as an ice bath.
After the ice bath, pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel to remove any excess water.
Spread the zucchini pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. It is easier to use just a little at a time from the freezer when done this way. Otherwise, it will freeze in a big clump.
Once frozen, transfer the zucchini to freezer-safe bags or resealable bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
Frozen zucchini can last up to 10-12 months, and it’s a great option for adding to soups, pasta sauces, and other zucchini recipes throughout the year.
Other Storage Tips
Use a paper towel. Adding a paper towel to the airtight container or freezer bags can help absorb extra moisture and keep your zucchini fresh for longer.
Choose smaller pieces. Smaller pieces or thin slices of zucchini freeze better and can be more easily incorporated into recipes like zucchini fritters, zucchini boats, and even as an ingredient for main dishes.
Avoid large seeds. Larger zucchinis often have large seeds and a tougher texture, which may not be ideal for certain dishes. Opt for medium zucchini or smaller pieces for the best quality.
Blanch zucchini for best results. Blanching is the best option to preserve the flavor, texture, and nutrients of zucchini when freezing.
Storing Zucchini at Room Temperature
If you plan to use your zucchini within a day or two, keeping it at room temperature is acceptable, especially for whole zucchini.
Just be sure to store it in a dry place and avoid keeping it in direct sunlight, as high-water content and heat can lead to faster spoilage.
Using Frozen Zucchini
Frozen zucchini is perfect for dishes where the texture doesn’t need to be firm, such as in soups, stews, or baked goods like zucchini fritters. For the best results, thaw the zucchini by placing it in a bowl of warm water or using it straight from the freezer during the cooking process.
Helpful Tips for Storing Zucchini
Rotate your zucchini. If you store a bunch of zucchinis, make sure to use the older ones first to avoid spoilage.
Avoid storing near ethylene-producing fruits. Whole fresh zucchini should not be stored near bananas, apples, or other ethylene-producing fruits, as it can lead to faster ripening and spoilage.
Store zucchini fresh for the longest time. Always choose zucchini with shiny skin and avoid any that show signs of rotten spots for the longest possible storage time.
Whether you’re making zucchini fritters, using zucchini noodles, or adding it to your favorite pasta sauces, knowing how to store zucchini is essential for getting the best quality out of this versatile squash.
Proper storage in the crisper drawer, freezer, or at room temperature ensures your zucchini will stay fresh and ready to use in your favorite zucchini recipes.
Follow these simple ways to keep your zucchini lasting longer, and you’ll always have this delicious, mild-flavored squash on hand when you need it.
