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:

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

Enjoy Zucchini Bites

Check out this Coastal favorite. All it takes is a short list of ingredients and a craving for some zucchini.

Try Greta’s Zucchini Bread Recipe

Even if you have too much zucchini growing in the garden, this bread recipe makes everyone happy. Greta’s recipe is quick, easy, and uses ingredients you probably already have in the kitchen. You’ll find her recipe along in our Gardening with Greta feature.

Add Zucchini to Turkey Burgers

To add healthy zucchini to turkey burgers, which are also pretty healthy, use a grater to make a fine pile of zucchini, onion and garlic. Squeeze the moisture from your shredded zucchini before adding it, and your other ingredients, to your turkey. Fry them up on the grill and enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 small zucchini (grated)
• 1 Onion (grated)
• 1 Clove Garlic
• Breadcrumbs
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Zucchini Soup is a Must

By combining chicken broth, onion, garlic, and zucchini in a large pot over medium heat, you can serve this wonderful soup to your family. Bring all of your ingredients to a boil and allow to simmer for 20 minutes. Finally, take it off the heat, put the soup and your sour cream into a blender, and puree it until it’s smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium zucchinis (cut into large chunks)
• 32 oz. Chicken Broth
• 2 tbs sour cream
• 1/2 onions (quartered)
• 2 Cloves Garlic
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Float Through Dinner with Zucchini Boats

First, trim the ends off 2 medium zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise. Then, scoop out the pulp, leaving 1/2-inch shells. Chop the pulp to use later. In a hot skillet, cook your beef, zucchini pulp, onion, mushrooms, and peppers until the meat is done. Drain and remove from heat before adding ½ cup of cheese, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Finally, spoon the mixture into your zucchini shells and place into a greased baking dish and cook at 350º for 30 minutes. Top with the rest of your cheese and serve.

Ingredients:

• 2 Medium Zucchinis
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 3/4 lb. Ground Beef
• 1/2 cup Mushrooms (chopped)
• 1/2 cup Red Peppers(chopped)
• 1/2 cup Green Peppers(chopped)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 2 tbsp Ketchup
• Salt & pepper to taste

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.