Have you ever been to the grocery store and wondered if zucchini had a long shelf life or not? You may have asked yourself this same question after returning home with bags of fresh, green zucchinis. Whether you’re an avid gardener looking for a way to make your produce last longer or a novice chef trying to time their purchases correctly, finding out how long does zucchini last in the fridge is key. Here we will break down everything there is to know about storing, prepping and using zucchini so that by the end of this article you’ll be able to make the most out of your veggie purchase!
How To Shop For Zucchini
Before we dive into the details of how long zucchini will last in the fridge, let’s go over some shopping basics. Look for firm and brightly colored vegetables when picking out your zucchini. Avoid those that have soft spots or are too mature as they will not store well and may become mushy. Keep an eye out for any discoloration or blemishes which can be signs of disease and pests.
How To Store Zucchini
When you get home, store your zucchinis in a plastic bag with one end open. This will help the vegetables retain their moisture and keep them from drying out. Place the bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator where it will stay fresh for about two weeks. If you want to extend the life of your zucchini, cut off the stem and place them in a container or bag with paper towels to help absorb any additional moisture.
How To Freeze Zucchini
Freezing zucchini can be an easy process as long as you have the right equipment. Here are five steps you can do:
Rinse and Slice Zucchini
Before you freeze zucchini, start by giving it a good scrub. Then, cut it into ½-inch round slices.
Turn Up the Heat
Blanching the slices of zucchini in boiling water for two minutes before freezing helps to preserve their flavor, texture, and color.
Give It the Big Chill
Once the slices are blanched, cool them off in an ice bath for five minutes. This helps to stop the cooking process and maintain their bright color.
Do a Flash Freeze
Spread the zucchini out on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer for 1–2 hours. This helps them freeze individually so they don’t stick together.
Save for Later
Once the slices are frozen, store them in an airtight container.
How to Thaw Zucchini After Freezing
When you’re ready to cook with your zucchini, take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also submerge the container in cold water for 30 minutes or microwave each slice in a bowl of water for one minute.
How Long Does Zucchini Last In The Fridge?
Zucchini is an incredibly versatile and nutritious veggie that can last a long time without going bad. When stored in the refrigerator, zucchini can last up to 2 weeks, while cooked or sliced zucchini will stay fresh in the fridge for three to four days. Even more incredible is that zucchini can stand up to time at room temperature as well; if you need to keep it out of refrigeration, you can still store it safely for three to four days before consuming or tossing. This long shelf life also extends to meals that contain zucchini, giving you plenty of time to whip up tasty dishes with this humble vegetable.
How To Tell If Zucchini Is Bad?
If you’re ever in doubt, use your eyes and nose to determine if zucchini has gone bad. If the vegetable is soft, discolored, or smells unpleasant then it’s a sign that it has spoiled and should be thrown out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does zucchini go bad in the refrigerator?
Yes, zucchini can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator if it is stored properly. Make sure you store it in an airtight container or bag with one end open and place it in the crisper drawer of your fridge.
Is zucchini still good after 2 weeks?
It’s best to consume your zucchini within two weeks of purchase. After that, the vegetable will start to spoil and should be thrown out.
Can you eat 3 week old zucchini?
No, it’s not recommended to eat zucchini that is more than two weeks old as it can be spoiled and may cause foodborne illness. Make sure to check your zucchini for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can you freeze cooked zucchini?
Yes, you can freeze cooked zucchini! Make sure to either blanch or flash freeze the zucchini before placing it in an airtight container for storage. Frozen zucchini will stay fresh for up to three months.
How fast does zucchini go bad?
Zucchini can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator and three to four days at room temperature. After that, the vegetable will start to spoil and should be thrown out.
Conclusion
If you store your zucchini properly in the fridge, it can last for up to two weeks. To extend its shelf life even further, you can also freeze zucchini. When it comes to zucchini, proper storage is key to making it last as long as possible. Do you have any tips for how to store other vegetables so they stay fresh? Let Quara Ethiopian Restaurant know in the comments!
