Hey there, friends who love veggies! Looking for yummy ways to cook your favorite summer squash? I’ve got you covered! I found 26 easy and tasty squash recipes for you. These recipes can be for sides or the main meal, so you have lots to pick from. Let’s check out these squash recipes because eating healthy should also be fun and yummy.
1. Grilled Summer Squash with Lemon-Scallion Dressing
A Bright and Zesty Side Dish
Add a fresh, vibrant touch to your summer meals with grilled summer squash drizzled with lemon-scallion dressing. The citrusy dressing elevates the mild flavor of the squash, providing an exciting taste contrast that is both delightful and refreshing.
The Ideal Grill Companion
Pair this grilled summer squash with your favorite barbecue meats or fish for a balanced and flavorful meal. Its simplicity complements more complex dishes and adds a necessary lightness to heavy barbecues.
Express Your Culinary Creativity
Feel free to experiment with the dressing by adding your favorite herbs and spices. You can also grill other summer vegetables alongside the squash for a delightful veggie medley.
2. Summer Squash and Corn Chowder
A Creamy, Comforting Soup
Enjoy a bowl of this creamy summer squash and corn chowder as a warm, comforting lunch or dinner. The sweetness of the corn perfectly complements the earthiness of the squash, creating a balanced and satisfying soup.
Perfect for Summer Evenings
This chowder is perfect for those cool summer evenings when you need something a bit heartier. Serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a full, satisfying meal.
Add Your Personal Touch
Don’t hesitate to add your personal touch to this recipe. Experiment with different herbs and spices or add a protein like chicken or shrimp to make the soup more substantial.
3. Summer Squash and Zucchini Carpaccio
A Fresh and Light Salad
This summer squash and zucchini carpaccio is a delightful and light salad, perfect for those hot summer days. The thinly sliced vegetables, drizzled with a zesty dressing, create a unique, refreshing dish that is sure to be a hit.
Perfect for Summer Entertaining
This salad is not only delicious, but also visually appealing. It’s perfect for summer entertaining, as it adds a splash of color and freshness to any table.
Personalize Your Salad
Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Adding toasted nuts, crumbled feta, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can provide additional layers of flavor and texture.
4. Summer Squash Pizza
A Creative, Nutritious Pizza
Transform your regular pizza night with this summer squash pizza. The mild flavor of the squash pairs perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce and melted cheese, creating a delicious and nutritious pizza that everyone will love.
A Fun Family Activity
Making pizza from scratch is a fun activity to involve the whole family. Let everyone choose their own toppings and create their own personal pizzas.
Customize Your Toppings
Feel free to customize your pizza with your preferred toppings. Add some grilled chicken for a protein boost or sprinkle on some chili flakes for a spicy kick.
5. Summer Squash Stir-Fry
A Quick, Flavorful Meal
This summer squash stir-fry is a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. The colorful veggies and savory sauce create a satisfying dish that pairs well with rice or noodles.
A Healthy Take on Takeout
Swap your usual takeout order for this healthier alternative. You’ll get all the flavors of your favorite Asian-inspired dishes, but with fresh ingredients and much less sodium.
Express Your Culinary Creativity
Feel free to swap out or add in any veggies you prefer. Experiment with different sauces and proteins to keep this dish exciting and varied.
6. Stuffed Summer Squash
A Wholesome and Satisfying Dish
Stuffed summer squash is a wholesome, satisfying dish packed with flavorful filling. The tender squash serves as the perfect vessel for a variety of fillings, from ground meat and vegetables to grains and cheese.
Perfect for Dinner Parties
This dish can make an impressive centerpiece for a dinner party. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a sure crowd-pleaser.
Customize Your Fillings
The beauty of this recipe is that you can adjust the fillings to suit your tastes. Experiment with different ingredients like quinoa, spinach, or even different types of cheese.
7. Summer Squash Pasta with Garlic and Tomatoes
A Light and Fresh Pasta Dish
This summer squash pasta with garlic and tomatoes is a light, fresh dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The mild squash pairs wonderfully with the sweet tomatoes and fragrant garlic, making every bite a delight.
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A Quick, Nutritious Meal
This pasta dish comes together in no time, making it a perfect option for those busy weekdays. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the summer squash and tomatoes.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or sprinkle some chili flakes for a bit of heat.
8. Baked Summer Squash
A Simple Yet Flavorful Side Dish
This baked summer squash is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, making it a family favorite.
Ideal for Busy Evenings
This dish is perfect for those busy evenings when you need a quick side dish. It requires minimal prep work and can be left in the oven while you prepare the rest of your meal.
Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to play around with different seasonings to spice things up. Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
9. Summer Squash Frittata
A Protein-Rich Breakfast or Brunch Dish
This summer squash frittata is a nutritious and delicious option for breakfast or brunch. The combination of eggs and squash creates a protein-packed dish that will keep you satisfied throughout the day.
Great for Meal Prep
A frittata is a great option for meal prep. Bake it in advance and reheat it for a quick breakfast or lunch during the week.
Add Your Favorite Ingredients
Customize your frittata with your preferred vegetables, herbs, and cheese. The possibilities are endless, making this dish versatile and exciting each time you make it.
10. Summer Squash Salad with Lemon Citronette
A Refreshing, Nutrient-Dense Salad
This summer squash salad with lemon citronette is a refreshing and nutrient-dense dish that’s perfect for those hot summer days. The fresh lemon dressing adds a bright, tangy note that complements the squash beautifully.
The Perfect Lunch
Enjoy this salad as a light yet satisfying lunch. The combination of summer squash, mixed greens, and the zesty dressing provides a balanced meal that will keep you full and energized throughout the day.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or changing the dressing to suit your tastes.
11. Grilled Summer Squash Boats
A Fun, Healthy Dish
These grilled summer squash boats are a fun, healthy dish that’s perfect for summertime grilling. The squash halves are filled with a tasty stuffing and grilled until tender, resulting in a delightful and nutritious meal.
A Barbecue Star
These squash boats are a fantastic addition to any barbecue. Not only do they look impressive, but they’re also a tasty vegetarian option that even meat-eaters will enjoy.
Customize Your Stuffing
Feel free to get creative with your stuffing. Add different vegetables, grains, or even some cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
12. Summer Squash Slaw
A Crunchy, Vibrant Salad
This summer squash slaw is a delightful departure from traditional coleslaw. Thinly sliced summer squash is mixed with carrots and cabbage in a tangy dressing, resulting in a salad that’s as tasty as it is colorful.
Ideal for Picnics and Potlucks
This slaw is perfect for picnics and potlucks, as it travels well and can be made in advance. Its bright colors and crunchy texture make it a popular side dish.
Adjust to Your Liking
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your preference. Try adding in some radish for extra bite, or use a different dressing to vary the flavor.
13. Summer Squash Risotto
A Creamy, Comforting Dish
This summer squash risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that perfectly showcases the delicate flavor of summer squash. The creamy rice and tender squash create a decadent meal that’s sure to impress.
A Luxurious Meal
Despite its luxurious texture and taste, this risotto is relatively simple to make, making it perfect for a date night or dinner party.
Add Your Favorite Ingredients
Feel free to experiment with the recipe. Add some grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein, or sprinkle in some fresh herbs for additional flavor.
14. Sautéed Summer Squash with Thyme and Almonds
A Nutty, Satisfying Side Dish
This sautéed summer squash with thyme and almonds combines the tender squash with the crunch of toasted almonds, resulting in a side dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
A Quick Addition to Any Meal
This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Its unique flavors and textures add a touch of elegance to your table.
Adjust to Your Taste
Experiment with different herbs or nuts to customize this dish to your liking. Try adding rosemary and walnuts, or oregano and pine nuts for a different flavor profile.
15. Summer Squash Pancakes
A Savory Breakfast or Snack
These summer squash pancakes are a delicious and savory treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a midday snack. The squash adds a unique twist to traditional pancakes, making them a memorable and healthy dish.
Kid-Friendly
These pancakes are a great way to sneak some veggies into your children’s meals. They’re flavorful enough to win over even the pickiest of eaters.
Experiment with Toppings
Top these pancakes with your favorite sauces or dips. Try a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a spread of apple butter for a tasty finish.
16. Summer Squash Casserole
A Comforting Family Dish
This summer squash casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for family meals. The tender squash is layered with creamy cheese and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Great for Potlucks
This casserole is a great option for potlucks or gatherings, as it can easily be prepared in advance and feeds a crowd.
Customize to Your Liking
Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. Add some cooked chicken for a protein boost, or throw in some sliced tomatoes for added flavor and color.
17. Summer Squash Gratin
A Decadent Side Dish
This summer squash gratin is a decadent, indulgent dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. The squash is baked in a rich cream sauce and topped with a cheesy crust, resulting in a dish that’s sure to impress.
Perfect for Special Occasions
This gratin is an excellent choice for special occasions or holiday meals. Its elegant presentation and rich flavors make it a standout dish.
Vary the Cheeses
Experiment with different cheeses for the topping. Try using Gruyere, fontina, or a mix of your favorite cheeses to change up the flavor.
18. Summer Squash Bread
A Sweet Treat
This summer squash bread is a deliciously sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. The squash adds moisture and a subtle flavor to the bread, making it a unique and tasty option.
Ideal for Sharing
This bread is great for sharing, making it a perfect option for a brunch gathering or as a homemade gift.
Experiment with Add-Ins
Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits to the batter. Walnuts, pecans, raisins, or cranberries would all make fantastic additions.
19. Summer Squash Soup
A Light and Refreshing Soup
This summer squash soup is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for a starter or light meal. The squash’s delicate flavor shines through, while the addition of herbs adds depth and complexity.
Great for Meal Prep
This soup is a fantastic option for meal prep. Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Experiment with Herbs
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding some fresh mint or cilantro for a unique flavor twist.
20. Summer Squash Relish
A Tangy Addition
This summer squash relish is a tangy, flavorful addition to your meals. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, adding a vibrant, tangy contrast to the smoky flavors.
A Great Make-Ahead
This relish can be made ahead of time, which allows the flavors to fully meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and it’ll be ready when you need it.
Vary the Spices
Experiment with different spices to customize this relish. Consider adding a bit of heat with some crushed red pepper flakes, or maybe some turmeric for a different flavor profile.
21. Summer Squash and Tomato Tart
A Summery Delight
This summer squash and tomato tart is a celebration of summer flavors. The delicate crust, juicy tomatoes, and tender squash combine to create a light yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a lunch or dinner.
Impress Your Guests
The vibrant colors and elegant presentation of this tart make it an impressive dish to serve to guests. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Personalize Your Tart
Feel free to customize this tart with your favorite cheeses or herbs. Try using a mix of colorful heirloom tomatoes for an even more stunning presentation.
22. Summer Squash Lasagna
A Lighter Take on a Classic
This summer squash lasagna is a lighter take on the traditional dish. The squash replaces some of the pasta layers, adding a fresh flavor and reducing the overall calories.
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A Crowd Pleaser
Lasagna is always a hit at gatherings, and this version is no exception. The surprising addition of squash is sure to impress your guests.
Variety is Key
Feel free to switch up the types of squash you use in this dish. Combine zucchini and yellow squash for a colorful and flavorful dish.
23. Summer Squash and Potato Torte
An Elegant Side Dish
This summer squash and potato torte is an elegant and tasty side dish that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of main courses. The crispy, golden crust is a beautiful contrast to the tender layers of squash and potato inside.
Great for Dinner Parties
This torte’s elegant presentation makes it a great choice for dinner parties or special occasions. Your guests will be impressed with both its looks and taste.
Play with Herbs
Feel free to play around with the herbs in this recipe. You could use rosemary, thyme, or even some fresh basil to change the flavor profile.
24. Summer Squash and Chicken Stir-Fry
A Quick and Healthy Dinner
This summer squash and chicken stir-fry is a quick, healthy dinner option that’s packed with flavor. The tender chicken and crisp squash are stir-fried with a savory sauce for a satisfying dish.
Great for Weeknights
Stir-fries are perfect for busy weeknights. They come together quickly and are a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge.
Customize Your Stir-Fry
Feel free to customize this stir-fry with your favorite vegetables or proteins. You could also play around with different sauces to change the flavor.
25. Summer Squash Quesadillas
A Fun and Tasty Snack
These summer squash quesadillas are a fun, tasty snack or light meal. The tender squash is a great contrast to the crispy tortilla and melted cheese, making for a satisfying dish.
Great for Kids
These quesadillas are a great way to get kids to eat their veggies. The cheesy goodness is sure to win them over.
Experiment with Add-Ins
Feel free to add in other ingredients like black beans, corn, or even some shredded chicken for added protein.
26. Summer Squash and Shrimp Skewers
Perfect for Grilling
These summer squash and shrimp skewers are a delicious option for grilling season. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp and squash.
Great for Entertaining
Skewers are a great choice for entertaining, as they’re easy to eat and fun to make. Your guests can even build their own skewers to suit their preferences.
Vary Your Skewers
Feel free to switch up the ingredients on your skewers. You could use chicken instead of shrimp, or add some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
Conclusion
From yummy stir-fries and tasty tarts to comforting chowders and fancy tortes, this list’s covered it all. Each recipe offers a unique and delicious way to enjoy this versatile veggie. So, why wait? Give these recipes a try and make your summer meals exciting and healthy. Remember, summer squash is not just good for you, it’s also super delicious. Happy cooking, folks!
