9 Best Easy Yellow Squash Recipes: Delicious Dishes for Every Meal

Yellow squash is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many delicious dishes. It is easy to cook and can add flavor and nutrition to any meal. In this article, I will share my 9 best easy yellow squash recipes that anyone can try.

From simple sautéed options to hearty casseroles, yellow squash provides many cooking possibilities. This vegetable is not only tasty but also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.

Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, these recipes can inspire you to include more yellow squash in your meals. I hope you find these ideas helpful and enjoyable.

1. Roasted Garlic Parmesan Yellow Squash

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Yellow Squash is a flavorful and easy dish to prepare. Yellow squash is a summer vegetable that has a mild taste and soft texture.

To make this dish, I typically use just a few ingredients. It requires yellow squash, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and seasonings like salt and pepper.

Here’s how I prepare it:

1. Preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the yellow squash into rounds or half-moons.
3. Mince 2-3 cloves of garlic.
4. In a bowl, mix the squash slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top and return to the oven.

This recipe is simple, takes less than 30 minutes, and makes a great side dish. The garlic and cheese add a delicious flavor that pairs well with many main courses.

2. Lemon Herb Sautéed Yellow Squash

Lemon Herb Sautéed Yellow Squash is a light and flavorful dish. It combines the freshness of lemon with the earthiness of herbs. This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for any meal.

To make this dish, I start with fresh yellow squash. I wash and cut it into thin slices. I usually use about two medium-sized squashes for this recipe.

Next, I heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, I add the squash slices and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes. They should become tender but still crisp.

I like to add a few cloves of minced garlic along with salt and pepper for flavor. After cooking for another minute, I squeeze half a lemon over the squash. This adds a nice brightness to the dish.

Finally, I finish with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. I give it a gentle toss and serve it warm. This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as a side for pasta.

3. Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole

Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is a creamy dish made with sliced yellow squash and cheese. It’s comfort food that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Making this casserole is quite simple. I find it an enjoyable recipe that only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Here are the basic steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice 4 cups of yellow squash and cook it in boiling water for 3-5 minutes until tender.
3. Drain the squash and mix it with 1 cup of shredded cheese, ½ cup of milk, and 2 beaten eggs in a large bowl.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.

This casserole pairs well with almost any main dish and is a great way to enjoy seasonal squash. It’s a family-friendly recipe that includes ingredients most people already have at home.

4. Yellow Squash and Zucchini Gratin

Yellow squash and zucchini gratin is a baked dish that combines sliced squash and cheese, often topped with breadcrumbs. It is tasty and makes a great side dish.

I find this recipe easy to make. It requires simple ingredients and minimal cooking skills. Here are the steps I follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice 2 cups of yellow squash and 2 cups of zucchini.
3. In a skillet, sauté 1 chopped onion in olive oil until soft.
4. Layer half of the squash and zucchini in a baking dish.
5. Add half of the sautéed onion and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining squash and zucchini.
7. Mix 1 cup of shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) with ½ cup of breadcrumbs and sprinkle on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the vegetables are tender.

This gratin is a wonderful way to enjoy summer vegetables like squash and zucchini.

5. Spicy Yellow Squash Pasta

Spicy Yellow Squash Pasta is a simple and delicious dish. It features fresh yellow squash as the main ingredient, adding flavor and nutrients. I find it easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

To make this dish, I start by cooking pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, I dice one medium yellow squash and a bell pepper. I heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the diced vegetables.

Next, I season the vegetables with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice. I sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender. Once the pasta is ready, I drain it and toss it in the skillet with the squash mix.

Finally, I serve the dish warm, optionally garnishing it with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs. This recipe is not only quick but also a great way to use summer squash in a flavorful meal.

6. Stuffed Yellow Squash Boats

Stuffed yellow squash boats are a delicious and healthy dish. They are hollowed-out squash filled with various tasty ingredients. This recipe is simple and can be made in under an hour.

To make stuffed yellow squash boats, I start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). I then cut the yellow squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create the “boats.”

Next, I prepare the stuffing. This can include cooked grains, vegetables, cheese, and spices. I mix the stuffing in a bowl until well combined.

I fill each squash half with the stuffing. Then, I place the stuffed squash in a baking dish. I cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in while it cooks.

Finally, I bake the squash for about 25-30 minutes. At the end of the cooking time, I remove the foil and let them bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to brown the tops.

Once done, my stuffed yellow squash boats are ready to serve. They are easy to customize based on my flavor preferences.

7. Yellow Squash Fritters

Yellow squash fritters are a tasty dish I enjoy making. They are simple to prepare and make for a great snack or side dish. These fritters are made by mixing grated yellow squash with other ingredients, forming them into patties, and then frying them until golden.

To make yellow squash fritters, I follow these steps:

1. Ingredients: I gather 2 cups of grated yellow squash, 1/2 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of grated cheese, 1 egg, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix: In a bowl, I combine the grated squash with flour, cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. I mix until everything is well combined.
3. Shape: I form the mixture into small patties, making sure they hold together.
4. Cook: In a skillet, I heat oil over medium heat. I add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
5. Serve: Once cooked, I place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil and serve warm.

These fritters are easy to customize with spices or herbs I enjoy.

8. Yellow Squash and Tomato Bake

Yellow squash and tomato bake is a simple and tasty dish. It combines fresh yellow squash with ripe tomatoes for a colorful meal. This recipe is easy to make and requires few ingredients.

To prepare, I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C). I slice about four medium yellow squashes and three tomatoes. Then, I layer them in a baking dish.

Next, I season with salt, pepper, and my favorite herbs. Olive oil drizzled on top adds flavor. I cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, I remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to get a nice golden top.

Once it’s cooked, the squash is tender, and the flavors blend well. This dish pairs nicely with meat or can be enjoyed on its own. I love how easy it is to prepare and how fresh it tastes.

9. Creamy Yellow Squash Soup

Creamy yellow squash soup is a smooth and flavorful dish that highlights the mild taste of yellow squash. It’s easy to make and perfect for any season.

To prepare this soup, I start by gathering my ingredients: yellow squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and cream. This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Here’s how I make it:

1. Chop 2 medium yellow squashes, 1 onion, and 2 cloves of garlic.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic in a pot with olive oil over medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped squash and 4 cups of vegetable broth.
4. Simmer for 15 minutes until the squash is tender.
5. Blend the mixture until smooth. I use an immersion blender for convenience.
6. Stir in 1 cup of cream and heat for a few more minutes.

I enjoy garnishing it with herbs or croutons for added texture. This creamy yellow squash soup is a delicious way to enjoy fresh produce in a comforting bowl.

What Are the Health Benefits of Yellow Squash?

Yellow squash is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. I find that incorporating yellow squash into my meals can support overall health through its nutritional content, vitamin profile, and antioxidant properties.

What Is the Nutritional Profile of Yellow Squash?

Yellow squash is low in calories yet rich in essential nutrients. A one-cup serving contains about 36 calories, making it a weight-friendly choice.

It’s also a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Fiber helps keep you feeling full longer, which can assist in weight management.

In terms of macronutrients, yellow squash has about 1 gram of protein and less than 1 gram of fat per serving. The carbohydrate content is around 7 grams, mostly from natural sugars.

What Vitamins and Minerals Are Found in Yellow Squash?

I appreciate the vitamin and mineral content of yellow squash. It is particularly high in vitamins A and C, both important for maintaining eye health and boosting the immune system.

One cup provides about 29% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A and 37% of vitamin C. Additionally, yellow squash contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.

The presence of magnesium in yellow squash can also aid in muscle function and provides a sense of relaxation. These vitamins and minerals play a vital role in overall wellness.

How Does Yellow Squash Provide Antioxidant Properties?

Yellow squash contains antioxidants, which are crucial for fighting free radicals in the body. These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to various diseases.

The main antioxidants found in yellow squash include carotenoids, which contribute to the vibrant yellow color. Carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, support eye health and may lower the risk of age-related eye diseases.

Incorporating yellow squash into my meals can provide these beneficial compounds, promoting better health and well-being.

What Are the Cooking Tips and Techniques for Yellow Squash?

When it comes to cooking with yellow squash, knowing how to select fresh squash, prepare it properly, and store it can greatly enhance the flavor and quality of your dishes. Here are some essential tips to help you work with yellow squash effectively.

How Do You Select Fresh Yellow Squash?

To find the best yellow squash, I always look for a firm feel and vibrant color. Fresh squash should be a deep yellow, without any bruises or soft spots. It’s also critical to check the size; smaller squashes typically have a sweeter taste and tender texture.

I prefer squash that is around 6 to 8 inches long. Check the skin; it should be smooth and shiny. Avoid any squash that appears dull or has wrinkled skin. Buying squash that is in season guarantees better flavor. Summer squash is best from late spring through summer.

What Are the Best Preparation Methods for Yellow Squash?

Before cooking, I wash the squash under cold running water. This removes dirt and pesticides. I often slice the ends off, keeping the skin on for added nutrients and texture. Yellow squash can be prepared in various ways: sautéing, grilling, baking, or steaming.

For sautéing, I cut the squash into thin slices for quicker cooking. When grilling, I like to slice it lengthwise and brush it with olive oil for flavor. Baking is also effective; I sometimes mix it with cheese and breadcrumbs for a hearty dish. Each method brings out different flavors, so I enjoy trying them all.

How Do You Properly Store Yellow Squash?

To prolong the freshness of yellow squash, I store it in the refrigerator. Placing it in a plastic bag helps retain moisture while allowing for air circulation. I try to use fresh squash within a week for the best taste.

If I want to freeze yellow squash, I first blanch it in boiling water for a couple of minutes. After cooling it in an ice bath, I drain and pack it into freezer-safe bags. This method lets me enjoy summer squash in winter without losing its flavor or texture. When stored properly, yellow squash can be a delicious ingredient all year round.