We partnered with The Packer to showcase Zucchini and some tips & tricks you may not know about it.
Seasonality:
- Zucchini is available year-round in some regions, with peak season being June to August.
Health Benefits of Zucchini:
- Rich in fiber, Vitamin A and Vitamin C, zucchini helps lower cholesterol, guards against asthma and strengthens teeth and bones.
- Zucchini is a good source of potassium, which helps reduce blood pressure.
- The Vitamin A in zucchini also helps in eye development and preventing age-related conditions.
How to Select Zucchini:
- Choose small to medium-sized zucchini (6-8 inches in length, 2 or less inches in diameter) with shiny, bright green skin. It should be firm and feel heavy for its size.
- Minor superficial scratched or bruises are common and perfectly fine.
- Avoid zucchini with pitted skin, spongy textures, or soft or wrinkled ends.
How to Store Zucchini:
- Store zucchini unwashed in a perforated plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If zucchini starts to soften or wilt, use immediately.
How to Prepare Zucchini:
- Always wash before preparing. Zucchini does not need to be peeled.
- To freeze: slice into rounds, blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes then plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry. Store in airtight containers or a plastic bag up to 1 year.
- Check out these 7 Delicious Ways to Cook with Zucchini!
Fun Facts About Zucchini:
- The world’s largest zucchini on record was 69 1/2 inches long, and weighed 65 lbs. Bernard Lavery of Plymouth Devon, UK, grew the humongous veggie.
