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What to Do With Too Much Zucchini

What to do with too much zucchini from the garden. 5 easy recipes including zucchini bread, grilled zucchini, fritters, and more.

If you plant zucchini, you know the problem. One plant produces enough to feed a neighborhood. Two plants produce enough to test your friendships. These are the five best ways to use it before it turns into a weapon.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. ZUCCHINI FRITTERS: Grate zucchini, salt it, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible in a clean towel.
  2. Mix grated zucchini with eggs, parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Form into palm-sized patties.
  4. Cook in olive oil over medium heat 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
  5. GRILLED ZUCCHINI: Slice lengthwise into 1/4-inch planks. Brush with olive oil, salt, and herbs.
  6. Grill or pan-cook 3 minutes per side until charred and tender.
  7. ZUCCHINI BREAD: Use your favorite quick bread recipe replacing 1 cup of liquid with grated zucchini.
  8. ZUCCHINI NOODLES: Spiralize or peel into ribbons. Toss with any pasta sauce raw or lightly sauteed.

Gardener Tips

Questions

What is the best way to preserve zucchini from the garden?
Grate it, squeeze out moisture, and freeze in 1-cup portions. Works perfectly in baked goods all winter. For sliced zucchini, blanch for 3 minutes and freeze on a baking sheet before bagging.
Why is my zucchini watery when I cook it?
Zucchini is 95% water. Salt it first and let it drain, or squeeze grated zucchini in a towel. High heat also helps — cook at medium-high so it sears rather than steams.
When should I harvest zucchini?
At 6-8 inches for the best flavor and texture. Check plants every 1-2 days in peak season — they can double in size overnight in warm weather.

More Garden Recipes

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