Learn how to freeze zucchini with this step-by-step guide. Discover the best techniques for preserving the freshness and flavor of this versatile summer squash.

Freezing raw zucchini is the easiest way to preserve this delicious summer squash and enjoy its freshness all year long. Whether you have an abundance of zucchini plants in your garden, or like me, you found a great deal at the local farmers market, freezing zucchini allows you to extend its shelf life while retaining its bright color, flavor, and nutrition. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure that your frozen zucchini maintains its texture and taste, ready to be used in all your favorite recipes throughout the year. In this guide, I will walk you through the best way to freeze zucchini, providing you with tips and techniques along the way.

Prep The Zucchini

The size of the zucchini doesn’t matter when it’s being shredded and frozen. Big or small, they all shred beautifully. Since you are NOT peeling the zucchini before it’s shredded, make sure to wash each one well. Put the zucchini in a large bowl, or your kitchen sink, add a splash of apple cider vinegar, and cover them with water. Soak them for a few minutes, then rinse and dry well.

how to freeze zucchini chopped on wood board

What You Need

*Affiliate links included. See my disclosure statement. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

how to freeze zucchini small food processor

The Freezing Process

Chop the zucchini into small pieces.
In batches, place the chopped zucchini in a small food processor.
Pulse the zucchini in short bursts. Do not get carried away! You want the zucchini shredded, not mushy.
Empty the food processor bowl into a measuring cup. You can also empty the zucchini into a large bowl, and measure it out later.
Pack the zucchini in resealable freezer bags, or freezer-safe containers. Remove as much air as possible from the packaging to prevent freezer burn. If using bags, flatten them for easier storage.
Label the bags with the date and increment amount for easy identification.
The shredded, bagged zucchini is placed immediately in the freezer.

shredded zucchini in bowl and measuring cup

DON’T FORGET TO PIN THIS!

Yield Information

Zucchini comes in all sizes…from the small squash that’s found at your grocery store, to the enormous gourds grown in gardens. A medium zucchini measures between 8-10 inches long, and will yield about 1 cup of shredded zucchini.
Freeze zucchini in one or two cup increments. Most of my zucchini recipes call for 2 cups, so that’s my go-to amount. If you aren’t sure exactly how your frozen zucchini will be used, it’s safer to package it in one cup increments.
Many times I have begun the process of freezing zucchini with no idea how many bags I’ll actually have at the end. My philosophy is that I would rather have too much, than not enough!

how to freeze zucchini resealable freezer bags

Helpful Tips

For best results, choose fresh zucchini. Select firm zucchini without blemishes or soft spots. Fresher zucchini will freeze better, and maintain its quality during storage.
The bagged, shredded zucchini is placed immediately in the freezer. Frozen, it will keep for up to 6 months.
Freezing zucchini noodles: spiralized zucchini freezes very well. After spiralizing, place the noodles in a colander and sprinkle with kosher salt. Lightly toss the noodles and let them drain in the colander for 30 minutes. Place on paper towels and pat dry. Place the noodles in resealable freezer bags.
Zucchini has a high water content, so liquid will appear after the zucchini is shredded. Do not remove any of this liquid. This moisture is what makes your baked goods so moist!
Shredded frozen zucchini is very easy to hide in recipes, and many times it’s undetectable. It’s a great way to get a healthy vegetable into your family’s diet.

pieces of chocolate zucchini cake — Chocolate Zucchini Cake

Different Ways To Use Frozen Zucchini

To use in recipes, remove the frozen zucchini from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator. For even quicker results, it’s fine to thaw it at room temperature, which takes 1-2 hours.

Use frozen-then-thawed zucchini in homemade zucchini bread, zucchini cake, zucchini muffin recipes, or any other type of baked good where zucchini is an ingredient.
Shredded zucchini is a great addition to various pasta sauces and spaghetti sauce. (This is a brilliant tip from a reader!)
Add frozen zucchini directly to soups and stews. They will thaw and cook quickly, adding a delicious flavor and texture to your favorite soup. Zucchini works well in vegetable soup, minestrone, chicken gnocchi soup, or chili.
Add thawed and drained frozen zucchini to any sloppy joe recipe.
Incorporate frozen zucchini into frittatas and quiches. Thaw and drain the zucchini, then sauté it briefly to remove excess water. Add it to the egg mixture along with other ingredients such as cheese, herbs, and vegetables for a delicious + savory dish.
A great way to enjoy thawed zucchini is to add it to casseroles and gratins. They add a nutritious element to dishes like lasagna, moussaka, or vegetable gratins. Simply thaw, drain any excess moisture, and layer the zucchini along with other ingredients.
Add frozen zucchini to smoothies or juices for an extra boost of nutrients. Thawed zucchini can be blended with fruits, leafy greens, and liquid of your choice for a refreshing and healthy beverage.

moist zucchini bread featured image — Zucchini Bread Recipe

Freezing zucchini is a simple and effective method to preserve this versatile summer squash for future use. By following a few easy steps, you can ensure that your frozen zucchini retains its flavor, texture, and nutritional value. With proper storage and labeling, you’ll have a stockpile of frozen zucchini ready to enhance your soups, stews, stir-fries, and bread recipes whenever you desire a taste of summer. So go ahead, freeze your zucchini, and savor the freshness long after the harvest season has ended.

Favorite Zucchini Recipes