If you’re like me, when the weather starts warming up, your cravings change. You start dreaming of light, fresh dishes that bring out the best of what summer has to offer. For me, there’s one dish that screams summer—Summer Skillet Squash. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors that will have you coming back for seconds and maybe thirds!.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a weekend trip to a local farmers’ market. I had just picked up a bunch of fresh, vibrant squash—yellow, green, and everything in between. When I got home, I thought to myself, “What’s the simplest way to make this squash shine?” And that’s when I came up with the idea for this skillet dish. A little olive oil, some fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of cheese—how could that not be good?
From that day forward, Summer Skillet Squash became one of my go-to dishes for everything from casual dinners to backyard BBQs. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it’s a great way to use up the bounty of summer produce that you might have sitting around. And let’s be honest, it tastes amazing! Whether you serve it alongside a main course or enjoy it as a light snack, this Summer Skillet Squash is bound to impress.
Why You’ll Love It
Here’s the deal: This dish is super versatile. You can tweak the recipe based on what you have in your kitchen or what’s in season. Want to throw in some onions, garlic, or fresh herbs like basil or thyme? Go for it! The beauty of this Summer Skillet Squash recipe is that it’s forgiving. It’s also one of those dishes that doesn’t need to be complicated to taste great. You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull it off—just some fresh squash, a hot skillet, and a little creativity.
Plus, it’s a recipe you can make year-round, even when summer feels far away. But there’s something about enjoying it when the sun’s shining, and everything feels more relaxed that just makes it special. You can pair it with grilled meats, a fresh salad, or serve it as a side dish for your favorite pasta. Or, if you’re like me, just grab a fork and enjoy it all on its own!
Health Benefits
Not only is Summer Skillet Squash delicious, but it’s also good for you. Squash is packed with vitamins and minerals that support your health, making this a feel-good dish. It’s high in vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for boosting your immune system. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy skin and vision, while vitamin C is known to help heal wounds and fight off infections.
But that’s not all! Squash is also a great source of fiber, which is important for digestion and keeping your gut healthy. Plus, it’s low in calories, so you can enjoy it without worrying about packing on the pounds. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and keep your cells healthy. If you’re watching your weight or just looking for a way to eat more veggies, this Summer Skillet Squash is a great option.
This dish is perfect for anyone who’s trying to eat healthier or just wants a tasty way to include more vegetables in their diet. And with summer squash being so easy to find, you’ll have no excuse not to add this one to your meal rotation!
When to Serve Summer Skillet Squash
So when’s the best time to enjoy this dish? Honestly, any time! But there are certain occasions that make it even more perfect. This Summer Skillet Squash is ideal for:
- Backyard BBQs: The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will look great on your grill side table next to burgers or grilled chicken.
- Light Lunches: If you’re craving something fresh but don’t want something heavy, this dish makes a great lunchtime option.
- Family Dinners: Quick enough for a busy weeknight, but delicious enough to impress your family at the dinner table.
- Picnics: Light and portable, it’s a perfect side for your next picnic. Just pack it in a container, and you’re good to go.
The versatility of this Summer Skillet Squash makes it easy to serve at almost any event or just as a simple dinner at home. Plus, the colors and flavors scream “summer,” so it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes: Summer Skillet Squash
- For the best flavor, always use fresh and firm patty pan squash. If unavailable, zucchini or yellow squash make great alternatives.
- To ensure even cooking, slice the squash into uniform ½-inch rounds. This helps maintain the perfect texture—tender yet slightly crisp.
- Sautéing the onions at the right temperature is key. Cook them gently over medium-high heat until they turn translucent, which enhances their natural sweetness.
- Using both olive oil and butter creates a balanced depth of flavor. Olive oil provides a smooth base, while butter adds a rich, creamy layer.
- If you prefer a slightly smoky taste, try using ghee instead of butter or adding a pinch of smoked paprika.
- To prevent overcooking, add the spinach and fresh herbs toward the end. This preserves their vibrant color and enhances the overall freshness of the dish.
- A final touch of freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese brings a light savory contrast.
- For a subtle heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or freshly cracked black pepper just before serving.
- This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
- If meal-prepping, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to retain texture and freshness.
Summer Skillet Squash
4
servings15
minutes10
minutes80
kcal25
minutesGet ready to wow your taste buds with this vibrant Summer Skillet Squash dish! Bursting with seasonal patty pan squash, crisp sweet onions, and a medley of fresh herbs, this recipe is a celebration of summer on your plate. Perfect for side dishes or light meals, its quick cooking time and lively flavors are sure to impress. Enjoy a chef-approved, healthy dish that exudes freshness and culinary excitement!
Ingredients
- Fresh Produce
4 medium patty pan squash sliced into ½‑inch rounds
1/2 sweet yellow onion paper‑thin sliced for optimal caramelization
3 cloves garlic gently crushed to release robust flavor
1.5 cups baby spinach leaves thoroughly washed
- Alternative Ingredients:
Olive oil can be swapped with avocado oil for a different nuance of richness.
Unsalted butter may be replaced with ghee for a slight caramelized flavor.
Instead of a sweet yellow onion try using red onion for a more robust taste.
If patty pan squash is unavailable substitute with zucchini or yellow squash.
Replace fresh spinach with tender arugula if preferred noting its peppery edge.
For basil if fresh isn’t accessible, use dried basil at half the measurement.
Parmesan cheese can be substituted with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free vegan twist.
Directions
- Preparation Ingredient Assembly – Begin by gathering all prepped ingredients. Rinse and slice the squash and onion, and crush the garlic—all set out within easy reach. This step, taking about 2 minutes, ensures a smooth cooking process.
- Sautéing the Base – Warm the extra virgin olive oil and unsalted butter in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat for roughly 1 minute, until the butter begins to foam. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté for an additional 3 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. This step lays down a flavorful foundation and educates on the importance of properly softened aromatics.
- Cooking the Main Vegetables – Toss in the patty pan squash slices and crushed garlic. Sprinkle a pinch of lemon pepper over the mix and continue cooking for about 5–6 minutes while stirring occasionally. Check doneness by piercing the squash with a fork; it should be tender yet retain a slight bite. Optionally, for extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of water if needed.
- Incorporating Fresh Greens – Stir in the baby spinach along with the chopped parsley and basil. Allow the greens to wilt for approximately 1 minute, mixing thoroughly to blend the flavors. This brief step ensures the herbs release their aromas without overcooking.
- Finishing Touches – Lower the heat and gently drizzle in the juice from ½ a lemon, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix carefully, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let this final flourish meld for around 1 minute before serving, enhancing every layer of the dish.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- nonstick pan
- measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- For a brilliant dish, choose the freshest squash and ensure your onion is cut uniformly for even cooking. Sauté the aromatics gently to enhance their natural sweetness before combining the vegetables. This versatile recipe pairs wonderfully with lightly grilled proteins such as chicken or fish, and you might consider topping it with a pinch of red chili flakes for an added kick. Extra lemon zest can also brighten the flavors further—enjoy your culinary creation!
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 80kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Potassium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 0.8mg
FAQs: Summer Skillet Squash
Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?
Yes! If patty pan squash isn’t available, zucchini or yellow squash are excellent alternatives. Just ensure they are sliced evenly to maintain a consistent texture.
How do I prevent the squash from turning mushy?
To keep the squash from becoming too soft, sauté over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. It should be tender but still have a slight bite when pierced with a fork.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for avocado oil or ghee and replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a plant-based, dairy-free version.
What other herbs can I use instead of parsley and basil?
Fresh thyme or oregano can be great substitutes. If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity by half, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! This skillet squash pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu for a heartier meal
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the flavors.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to add fresh herbs and lemon juice right before serving rather than storing them with the cooked squash.
How can I add more flavor to the dish?
Try adding a bit of freshly grated lemon zest, a dash of smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of red chili flakes to enhance the flavors further.
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