Freshly picked zucchini is cooked down with garlic, butter, and salt to create a rich and creamy side dish that can be eaten right away or frozen for later enjoyment. It's a simple yet delicious way to preserve a lot of zucchini at once.
Start by washing and drying zucchini. Cut into 1-inch cube pieces. If the zucchini is larger, cut out the spongy inside and seeds before chopping.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Place chopped zucchini and salt in with melted butter and mix well. Cook uncovered over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Allow the zucchini to cook down until it can be easily mashed. This typically takes around 40-45 minutes. Meanwhile, mince garlic and set aside.
Once softened, mash the zucchini with a potato masher for a thicker consistency. It's ok if there are still some larger pieces. Use a blender or immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
Add the minced garlic and mix well. Cook until the garlic is soft, about 5 to 10 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
The mixture can be served immediately or frozen for later use. If freezing, allow the mixture to cool down completely before placing in freezer-safe containers. To thaw, place in refrigerator overnight or cook slowly from frozen on low heat, stirring constantly. Enjoy!
Notes
*8 cups of 1-inch cubed zucchini is around 2.5 pounds fresh and will result in about 4 cups of mash. This will vary depending on the size of your zucchini and how much spongy inside you need to remove.