7 Delicious Yellow Squash Recipes You'll Love

Delicious Yellow Squash Recipes You'll Love

Introduction to Yellow Squash

Yellow squash, a versatile summer vegetable, offers a mild, sweet flavor and a tender, moist texture when cooked. This blog post will delve into seven delightful recipes that showcase the incredible taste and health benefits of yellow squash. From appetizers to main courses, these recipes are perfect for incorporating more vegetables into your diet in an enjoyable way.

1. Zucchini and Yellow Squash Ribbons

One of the most visually appealing ways to prepare yellow squash is by turning it into ribbons. Here's how:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 medium yellow squash
  • 2 zucchinis
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Method:
  • Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice the squash and zucchinis lengthwise into thin ribbons.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the ribbons until they are tender but still crisp.
  • Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  • Garnish with torn basil leaves before serving.

🍋 Note: This dish is perfect for hot summer days as it's light and refreshing, ideal for complementing grilled meats.

2. Yellow Squash Casserole

For a comforting meal, nothing beats a casserole. Here’s how to make one with yellow squash:

• Ingredients:
  • 6 medium yellow squash, sliced
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
• Method:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Boil the sliced squash with salt until tender, then drain and set aside.
  • In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, egg, onion, and seasonings. Fold in the cooked squash and half of the cheese.
  • Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.
  • Bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

3. Grilled Yellow Squash Skewers

Grilling enhances the natural sweetness of yellow squash. Here's an easy skewer recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 yellow squash, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
• Method:
  • Prepare the marinade by mixing olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and honey. Add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
  • Thread the squash onto skewers and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Grill skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.

4. Yellow Squash Soup

Warm up with a bowl of this creamy yellow squash soup:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 yellow squash, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk for creaminess
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme or dill for garnish
• Method:
  • In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  • Add chopped squash, cook for 5 minutes, then add broth. Bring to a boil and simmer until squash is very soft.
  • Purée the soup with an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender.
  • Return to pot, stir in cream, and season. Garnish with herbs before serving.

5. Yellow Squash and Corn Fritters

These fritters are a delightful way to sneak some veggies into your diet:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 yellow squash, grated
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • Oil for frying
• Method:
  • Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
  • Heat oil in a frying pan, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, and flatten slightly.
  • Fry until golden brown on both sides. Serve warm with a side of salsa or sour cream.

6. Roasted Yellow Squash with Parmesan

Roasting intensifies the flavors of yellow squash:

• Ingredients:
  • 3 yellow squash, cut into thick slices
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Method:
  • Toss squash with oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Sprinkle Parmesan over the top.
  • Roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the edges are crispy and golden.

7. Yellow Squash Bread

Move over zucchini, yellow squash has its place in baking too:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups grated yellow squash (drain excess water)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/4 cups sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Method:
  • Combine dry ingredients in one bowl. In another, mix wet ingredients, including the squash.
  • Stir wet ingredients into dry until just blended.
  • Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at 325°F (165°C) for about 60 minutes.

🍞 Note: This bread is delicious as is or can be enhanced with the addition of nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips.

In conclusion, yellow squash is a versatile vegetable that can be incorporated into your diet in numerous ways. Each of these recipes highlights the unique texture and flavor of yellow squash, making it a star ingredient in both simple and gourmet dishes. Whether you're looking for a quick appetizer or a hearty main course, there's a yellow squash recipe to satisfy your cravings and nourish your body. Enjoy experimenting with this colorful and nutritious vegetable, and discover just how delicious and adaptable it can be!

Can yellow squash replace zucchini in recipes?

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Yes, yellow squash can often be substituted for zucchini in most recipes. They have a similar texture and moisture content, though yellow squash tends to be a bit sweeter.

Is yellow squash good for a low-carb diet?

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Absolutely! Yellow squash is low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals.

How do you store yellow squash?

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Store yellow squash in the refrigerator crisper drawer, unwashed and in a perforated plastic bag. It should last for about a week. If you have more than you can use, consider freezing or pickling it to preserve its freshness.