Summer Squash Recipes: From Simple Sides to Savory Mains
Summer squash, with its delicate flavor and versatility, is a summer garden staple. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this guide offers a range of delicious and easy summer squash recipes to inspire your culinary creativity. We'll cover everything from simple side dishes to more elaborate entrees, ensuring there's something for every palate and skill level. Get ready to embrace the abundance of summer's harvest!
Simple & Speedy Summer Squash Side Dishes
These recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a fresh addition to your barbecue spread. Minimal prep time and maximum flavor are the goals here.
Garlic Parmesan Summer Squash
This classic combination is incredibly easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sliced squash and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.
Sautéed Summer Squash with Herbs
A simple yet elegant side dish that highlights the fresh flavors of summer squash.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, or thyme), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced squash and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Summer Squash Recipes for Hearty Meals
These recipes showcase summer squash as a main ingredient, proving its versatility in more substantial dishes.
Summer Squash Fritters
These crispy fritters are a delicious way to use up a surplus of summer squash. Serve them as an appetizer or a light meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated summer squash (a mix of zucchini and yellow squash works well)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
- Grate the summer squash and place it in a colander to drain excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, combine the grated squash, flour, egg, Parmesan cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of the squash mixture into the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Serve immediately.
Summer Squash and Corn Gratin
A creamy, cheesy gratin that's perfect for a comforting summer meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sliced summer squash
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sliced squash, corn kernels, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and cheeses to create your own unique summer squash dishes! Remember to always check your summer squash for freshness before using it in any recipe. Enjoy the bounty of summer!
