5 Patty Pan Squash Recipes to Try Today

Patty pan squash, with its scalloped edges and tender flesh, is a summer gem that’s often overlooked. But not anymore! Get ready to fall in love with these five mouthwatering recipes that will transform this humble vegetable into the star of your table.

1. Mediterranean Grilled Patty Pan Squash Steaks

Transport yourself to a sun-drenched Greek island with these herb-infused squash steaks.

Ingredients:

• 4 large patty pan squash, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crumbled feta cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, and lemon zest.
2. Brush the squash slices with the herb mixture and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until tender and grill marks appear.
4. Sprinkle with feta cheese and serve immediately.

Pro tip: These squash steaks pair beautifully with a crisp Greek salad and a glass of chilled white wine.

2. Asian-Inspired Roasted Patty Pan Squash Bowl

Take your taste buds on an oriental adventure with this umami-packed bowl of goodness.

Ingredients:

• 6 small patty pan squash, quartered
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic in a bowl.
3. Toss squash quarters in the mixture and spread on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and tender.
5. Serve over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Did you know? Patty pan squash is rich in vitamins A and C, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious!

3. Italian Sautéed Patty Pan Squash Pasta

Bring a taste of Tuscany to your dinner table with this quick and easy pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium patty pan squash, thinly sliced
• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced squash and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and lightly golden.
4. Toss in cooked pasta, basil, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Add pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Kitchen secret: For an extra flavor boost, add a handful of toasted pine nuts to the pasta just before serving.

4. Herb-Stuffed Patty Pan Squash

These adorable stuffed squashes are perfect as a vegetarian main or a show-stopping side dish.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium patty pan squash
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, dill, mint), chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the squash and scoop out the centers, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Mix cooked quinoa, sautéed onion and garlic, herbs, and goat cheese in a bowl.
5. Stuff the squash with the mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until squash is tender and filling is hot.

Presentation tip: Arrange these colorful stuffed squashes on a bed of fresh greens for an Instagram-worthy plate!

5. Spicy Grilled Patty Pan Squash Tacos

Who says tacos can’t be healthy? These grilled squash tacos are a fiesta of flavors in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 large patty pan squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• Toppings: avocado slices, cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite salsa

Instructions:

1. Mix olive oil with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt in a bowl.
2. Toss squash slices in the spice mixture.
3. Grill squash over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred.
4. Warm tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds per side.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled squash and your choice of toppings.

Taco night tip: Set up a DIY taco bar and let everyone customize their own patty pan squash tacos!

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There you have it – five delectable ways to enjoy patty pan squash! From Mediterranean-inspired grilled steaks to spicy tacos, these recipes prove that this versatile vegetable deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.