Quick Answer – 1 medium zucchini makes 1 cup shredded
Introduction
Zucchini is a versatile summer squash that can be used in many recipes. It has a mild flavor and soft flesh that works well in baked goods, casseroles, pastas, and more. When a recipe calls for shredded zucchini, it’s helpful to know how much you need to buy and prep. So how much zucchini does it take to make 1 cup shredded? Let’s take a closer look.
How Many Zucchinis For 1 Cup Shredded?
The general rule of thumb is that 1 medium zucchini will make right around 1 cup shredded. Zucchini sizes can vary, but a typical medium zucchini is about 7-8 inches long and 2-3 inches in diameter. This will produce about 1 cup when shredded.
To be more precise:
| Zucchini Size | Cups Shredded |
|---|---|
| Small (5″ long x 1.5″ diameter) | 3/4 cup |
| Medium (7-8″ long x 2-3″ diameter) | 1 cup |
| Large (9-10″ long x 3-4″ diameter) | 1 1/4 cups |
As you can see, medium zucchinis are your best bet for getting an exact 1 cup shredded. Small zucchinis will produce a bit less, while large ones produce more. The exact amount can also vary slightly based on the shape and diameter of each individual zucchini.
When prepping for a recipe, it’s always smart to have an extra zucchini on hand in case one is smaller than expected. You can keep any extra shredded zucchini in the refrigerator for a day or two before using it in another recipe.
Tips For Prepping and Shredding Zucchini
Here are some tips for prepping zucchini for shredding:
– Wash the zucchini well under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Dry thoroughly with a towel.
– Trim off both ends of the zucchini. Discard the stem end but you can keep the blossom end if the zucchini is fresh and young.
– Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise first, then lay each half flat side down and slice into planks about 1/4 inch thick.
– Stack several planks on top of each other and cut into 1/4 inch strips.
– If you want a finer shred, cut the stacked strips crosswise into smaller pieces.
– Use a box grater or food processor fitted with a shredding disc to shred the zucchini strips into fine shreds.
– Pat the shredded zucchini with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
– For 1 cup shredded zucchini, you’ll need about 3 cups of raw sliced zucchini planks. They reduce in volume significantly when shredded.
– Store shredded zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days until ready to use.
Why Shred Zucchini?
Shredding zucchini is useful for a few reasons:
– It breaks down the zucchini into smaller, uniform pieces that incorporate well into batters and doughs.
– Shredding exposes more surface area that releases moisture as the zucchini cooks. This prevents baked goods from becoming soggy.
– It gives casseroles, breads, and muffins a soft, moist texture without large chunks of zucchini.
– Finely shredded zucchini virtually disappears into recipes, providing moisture and nutrients without significantly altering the texture.
– Decoratively shredded zucchini makes a pretty garnish for soups, salads, and appetizers.
So if a recipe calls for shredded zucchini, reach for a medium 7-8 inch zucchini to end up with the right amount. And be sure to prep and shred it using the techniques above for best results. Enjoy this versatile summer squash all season long!
How to Store Shredded Zucchini
Once you’ve shredded your zucchini, proper storage is important for keeping it fresh until you’re ready to use it. Here are some tips for storing shredded zucchini:
Short Term Storage
For short term storage of just a day or two, shredded zucchini can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Glass or plastic containers with tight fitting lids work best. The cold temperature of the refrigerator will help retain moisture and keep the shredded zucchini crisp.
Before storing, pat the shredded zucchini with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture. Excess moisture can cause sogginess and spoilage faster. Place the dried shredded zucchini into the storage container and press down to compact it. Cover tightly.
Stored this way in the refrigerator, shredded zucchini will stay fresh for 2-3 days. Make sure to use it within that timeframe for best quality and flavor.
Long Term Storage
For longer term storage, you can freeze shredded zucchini for later use. To freeze, again pat the shredded zucchini dry and then spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place in the freezer until completely frozen, about 2-3 hours.
Once frozen solid, transfer the shredded zucchini to airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible and seal tightly. Label with the date and return to the freezer.
Properly frozen, shredded zucchini can be kept for up to 10-12 months in the freezer. It will retain its flavor and texture very well. Thaw in the refrigerator before using in recipes.
Freezing in batches is handy for having just the amount you need on hand for future recipes. Freeze shredded zucchini in the portions called for in your favorite recipes for easy cooking.
What To Avoid
A few things to keep in mind when storing shredded zucchini:
– Avoid storing shredded zucchini at room temperature. It will quickly deteriorate and become soggy. Refrigerate or freeze for best results.
– Don’t store shredded zucchini uncovered in the refrigerator. Always place in an airtight container.
– Avoid over-packing shredded zucchini into containers. Too much compression can damage the texture.
– When freezing, use freezer-safe packaging and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
– Don’t thaw frozen shredded zucchini at room temperature. Always thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Follow these guidelines, and your stored shredded zucchini will stay fresh and ready to use! Enjoy it in your favorite baked goods, casseroles, soups, salads and more.
5 Delicious Ways to Use Shredded Zucchini
Shredded zucchini is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Its mild flavor and moisture make it a great addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Here are 5 delicious ways to put leftover shredded zucchini to use:
1. Quick Bread
One of the most popular ways to use shredded zucchini is baking it into quick breads and muffins. It adds moisture and fiber, while remaining virtually undetectable in terms of flavor. From banana zucchini bread to zucchini cornbread, the options are endless.
2. Pancakes and Waffles
For a healthy breakfast twist, add some shredded zucchini to your favorite pancake or waffle batter. It contributes valuable nutrients without compromising taste or texture. Replace up to 1/4 of the flour in the recipe with finely shredded zucchini for a boost of veggies.
3. Meatballs and Meatloaf
For a lighter, moister meatloaf or turkey/beef meatballs, mix in some shredded zucchini. Up to 1 cup can be added to meatloaf or 1/2 cup to a batch of meatballs without making the texture too soft.
4. Omelets and Frittatas
Stir shredded zucchini into egg mixtures for omelets, frittatas, and strata. It will add some veggie goodness while cooking down into a tender texture. Use it in place of other mix-ins or in combination with sautéed onions, cheese, or diced ham.
5. Pasta Sauce
Shredded or diced zucchini can be sautéed with onion and garlic to make a quick pasta sauce. Add tomato paste/sauce, herbs, and seasonings of choice. Toss with hot cooked pasta for a fast weeknight dinner.
Those are just a few ideas for using up shredded zucchini creatively. With its mild flavor and texture, the possibilities are endless. Add it to casseroles, soups, salads, baked goods, and more. Store any extra shredded zucchini in the refrigerator or freezer to have it on hand anytime a recipe calls for it.
Conclusion
In summary, one medium zucchini measuring approximately 7-8 inches long and 2-3 inches in diameter will produce about 1 cup shredded. Smaller zucchinis will make around 3/4 cup shredded, while larger ones can produce up to 1 1/4 cups.
To shred zucchini:
– Wash, trim ends, and cut in half lengthwise
– Cut halves into 1/4 inch thick slices
– Stack slices and cut into matchsticks
– Shred matchsticks into fine pieces with a box grater or food processor
Proper storage for shredded zucchini includes:
– Refrigerate in an airtight container for 2-3 days
– Freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 12 months
Popular uses for shredded zucchini include baking it into quick breads and muffins, adding it to pancakes, waffles, omelets, meatloaf and meatballs, mixing into pasta sauce, and incorporating into casseroles and soups.
With its very mild flavor and moisture, shredded zucchini can be added to both sweet and savory dishes for extra nutrition. Start with 1 medium zucchini whenever a recipe calls for 1 cup shredded, and enjoy this versatile veggie all summer long.
