Sautéed squash is a delightful dish that celebrates the bright flavors of summer vegetables. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a side that bursts with flavor. The Sautéed Squash Recipe we’ll explore today is perfect for busy weeknights or carefree weekend gatherings. Picture golden-brown pieces, tender yet slightly crisp, that pair beautifully with any main course or shine brightly on their own.
The sweet onions and aromatic garlic blend perfectly with the squash, creating a comforting dish that welcomes everyone to the table. As we move through the preparation steps, you’ll discover how straightforward cooking can be without sacrificing taste. So, grab your skillet and let’s get started on this wonderful summer recipe!
Why This Recipe Works
Sautéed squash is a testament to simplicity and flavor. By allowing the natural sweetness of the squash to shine through, coupled with the rich, buttery notes from cooking, this dish becomes a canvas for culinary creativity. The caramelization process not only enhances the texture but also brings out complex flavors that elevate this summer vegetable to a new level.
Why You’ll Love This Sautéed Squash Recipe
This sautéed squash recipe is a celebration of summer’s bounty. It’s quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings. You’ll love how it pairs beautifully with both simple proteins and extravagant entrees, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 yellow squash or zucchini (about 2 cups when cut)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ sweet onion or 1 whole shallot
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter (for flavor)
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Preparation Steps
Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
Sauté the Onions
Add the chopped sweet onion or shallot to the skillet. Sauté until they soften and begin to caramelize, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant. This step infuses the butter with a garlicky essence.
Prepare the Squash
While the garlic cooks, chop the yellow squash or zucchini into even-sized pieces, aiming for half-inch chunks.
Incorporate Extra Butter
Now, add 1 tablespoon of additional butter to the skillet, allowing it to heat briefly. This enhances the richness of the dish.
Sauté the Squash
Introduce the chopped squash to the skillet, increasing the heat to medium-high. Toss the squash in the garlic butter, ensuring each piece gets coated. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the squash is tender and the edges are golden brown.
Season and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and season with kosher salt. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Toss gently to combine all the flavors before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your sautéed squash with grilled chicken or fish for a light, wholesome meal. It also complements hearty dishes like steak or roasted pork. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice for a delightful vegetarian option that keeps your meal satisfying.
Tips for Success
- Even Size: Ensuring your squash pieces are evenly sized promotes uniform cooking and better texture.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and quality Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor impact.
- Watch the Heat: Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning the garlic or overcooking the squash.
Variations
- Add Herbs: Include fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a burst of freshness.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add some delightful heat.
- Other Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and taste.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Yes, other squash varieties such as butternut or acorn squash can work, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. Is this sautéed squash recipe vegan?
You can make it vegan by substituting butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
3. Can I make sautéed squash ahead of time?
While best when fresh, you can prepare this dish in advance, but gently reheating it will help retain its wonderful texture.
4. What should I serve with sautéed squash?
This dish pairs excellently with proteins like chicken or fish. It also complements pasta dishes well.
5. How do I know when the squash is done cooking?
The squash should be tender but still slightly crisp, with golden-brown edges for that perfect finish.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of sautéed squash! This simple dish not only reflects the beauty of seasonal veggies but is also a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether as a side or a star on its own, it brings warmth and joy to every table. Embrace variations, and tweak it to your taste for a personal touch. Happy cooking!
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Sautéed Squash
This sautéed squash is a quick and vibrant side that highlights the natural sweetness of summer vegetables. With buttery notes and aromatic garlic, it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 yellow squash or zucchini (about 2 cups when cut)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ sweet onion or 1 whole shallot
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter (for flavor)
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Sauté chopped onion or shallot until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Chop squash into half-inch chunks while garlic cooks.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt.
- Introduce chopped squash, sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender and golden brown.
- Season with salt, sprinkle with Parmesan and Italian seasoning, then toss to combine before serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Cut squash into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Use fresh garlic and quality Parmesan for best flavor.
Monitor heat to prevent burning garlic or overcooking squash.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 20
