What To Do With A Large Zucchini Squash

What to Do With a Large Zucchini Squash

What to do with a large zucchini squash is simpler than you think: eat it, freeze it, bake with it, or share it.
 
A large zucchini squash is still perfectly good, even when it’s the size of your forearm and hiding under giant leaves in the garden.
 
The key is knowing how to handle it, because a big zucchini behaves differently from a small, tender one.
 
If you’ve been staring at a monster zucchini on your counter wondering what to do with a large zucchini squash, you’re in the right place.
 
In this post, we’ll cover the best things to do with a large zucchini squash, how to prep it so it doesn’t turn mushy, and tasty ways to use it up before it goes bad.
 
Let’s get to it.
 

What to Do With a Large Zucchini Squash: The Best Options

So what to do with a large zucchini squash?
 
Here are the best ways to put it to work:
 

1. Grate It and Freeze It

Grating is the number one answer to what to do with a large zucchini squash.
 
Big zucchini have more water and larger seeds, so shredding them hides any toughness and makes them easy to store.
 
Grate the flesh, squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel, and pack it into freezer bags in two-cup portions.
 
That way you always have a large zucchini squash ready for soups, fritters, or baking whenever you need it.
 

2. Bake With It

Baking is a delicious way to use a large zucchini squash.
 
Zucchini bread, muffins, and chocolate cake all soak up shredded zucchini without anyone noticing the veggies.
 
Because a large zucchini squash holds so much moisture, it actually makes baked goods softer and more tender.
 
Just remember to squeeze the shreds dry first, or your loaf will turn out soggy.
 

3. Stuff It

If you’re wondering what to do with a large zucchini squash that’s too big for the grill, stuffing it is the answer.
 
Halve the zucchini lengthwise, scoop out the seedy center, and fill it with rice, ground meat, or a cheesy vegetable mix.
 
A large zucchini squash makes a perfect boat because its thick walls hold up beautifully in the oven.
 
Bake at 375°F until the filling is hot and the squash is fork-tender.
 

4. Turn It Into Noodles or Fritters

Spiralizing and fritters are two more great answers to what to do with a large zucchini squash.
 
For noodles, peel the skin, spiralize the firm outer flesh, and skip the watery center.
 
For fritters, grate it, mix with flour, egg, and herbs, then pan-fry until golden and crispy.
 
Either way, a large zucchini squash stretches into a whole meal without much effort.
 

How to Prep a Large Zucchini Squash Before Cooking

A large zucchini squash needs a little prep work before it hits the pan.
 
Here’s how to handle it:
 

1. Check for Tenderness First

Not every oversized zucchini is worth eating.
 
Press a fingernail into the skin of your large zucchini squash.
 
If it dents easily, it’s still tender and great for cooking.
 
If the skin is rock hard and the flesh feels spongy, it’s past its prime and better off composted or seeded for next year’s garden.
 

2. Scoop Out the Seeds

The seeds in a large zucchini squash are bigger and tougher than those in small ones.
 
Slice the squash in half and scoop out the seedy center with a spoon.
 
This step keeps your dishes from turning watery and removes the part that tastes most bitter.
 

3. Salt and Drain the Excess Water

A large zucchini squash is packed with water, which can ruin a recipe if you ignore it.
 
After grating or slicing, toss the pieces with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander for 15 minutes.
 
Then squeeze them dry.
 
This little trick prevents soggy fritters, watery casseroles, and mushy bread.
 

Can You Eat the Skin and Seeds of a Large Zucchini Squash?

Yes, you can eat the skin of a large zucchini squash as long as it’s tender.
 
The skin holds extra nutrients and fiber, so keep it on for grating and slicing.
 
The seeds, though, are best removed from a large zucchini squash because they get tough and chewy.
 
If the skin feels too thick, just peel it with a vegetable peeler before cooking.
 

Plant a Large Zucchini Squash in the Fall

No garden on hand?
 
A large zucchini squash is the perfect choice for a fall garden if you live in the South, because it grows quickly and thrives in warm conditions.
 
Plant a large zucchini squash in a sunny spot about 30 days after the last frost.
 
Water it well, give it room to spread, and it will reward you with fruit in about 50 to 60 days.
 
If you’re wondering what to do with a large zucchini squash in the South, fall is the perfect season for turning that fresh harvest into soups and casseroles.
 

So, What to Do With a Large Zucchini Squash?

What to do with a large zucchini squash comes down to a few simple moves: grate and freeze it, bake it into bread, stuff it, or spiralize the firm flesh for noodles.
 
Just remember to check for tenderness, scoop the seeds, and drain the excess water before cooking.
 
A large zucchini squash is a gift, not a problem, so don’t let it go to waste.
 
Hope this post has helped you figure out exactly what to do with a large zucchini squash so you can enjoy every last bite.