There are a few vegetables that are synonymous with summer, no matter where you live. Corn and tomatoes are two obvious ones. And then there’s the zucchini. If you grow it in your garden, you know that it can sort of take over the place. Even if you don’t, the vast piles you see at your local market confirm just how ubiquitous it is in late summer.
That’s not necessarily a bad thing, of course! With endless zucchini recipes, both savory and sweet, you really can make the most of the versatile veggie. There is one downside, though. Zucchini is so high in water content that if it sits around for a while, it can get, well... slimy. That’s a sign that the cell walls have broken down and it has gone bad. Womp, womp!
The good news is that you can avoid that for up to two weeks if you know how to store zucchini properly. First and foremost, when you get it home, do not wash it or cut it. Much like storing strawberries and other delicately skinned produce, washing and/or cutting it will encourage faster deterioration. Wait until you’re ready to use it. Keep reading for more tips and tricks for storing zucchini the right way.
Is zucchini better in the fridge or on the counter?
The refrigerator is better than the counter for storing zucchini. At room temperature, zucchini will start to break down in one to three days. But if stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to two weeks. So, unless you’re going to use it immediately, definitely pop it in the crisper drawer of your fridge.
What's the best way to store zucchini?
Before you put it in the refrigerator, make sure you’re storing zucchini correctly. Remove it from the plastic bag if it’s in one, and store whole, unwashed zucchini loosely in a paper bag instead. That is a more breathable material, which can help release the moisture that would otherwise make it slimy.
If you have cut uncooked zucchini, you can lay the pieces on paper towels lining an airtight container to help absorb the moisture. This will help it last up to five days. After that, it will start to break down and get slimy regardless of the paper towels. And remember, you can always freeze zucchini if you need to save it longer!
Is it safe to eat slimy zucchini?
Generally speaking, no, it is not safe to eat slimy zucchini. That means it is starting to spoil, which means there is a risk of bacteria, mold, and other toxins that might lead to gastrointestinal issues and possibly food poisoning. It’s best to throw it out! Remember, zucchini is easy to find any time of year, so it’s best that you buy fresh instead.
