Name: Patty Pan Squash Recipe: A Simple and Flavorful Side Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb patty pan squash (small, medium, or large; cut as needed); 2 tbsp olive oil (divided, for coating and cooking); 2 cloves garlic (minced, divided); 1 tsp salt (to taste); 1 tsp pepper (to taste); 1 tbsp fresh herbs (like thyme, parsley, or dill, chopped); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

This Patty Pan Squash Recipe highlights the natural sweetness of these delightful summer squashes, enhanced with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfectly sautéed to achieve a golden-brown crust and tender texture, this dish is elevated with optional Parmesan cheese for a savory touch.

Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian delight, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become a favorite addition to your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love It:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy and Nutritious: Low in calories but high in flavor, patty pan squash is rich in vitamins and fiber.
Versatile: Works as a side dish, a light vegetarian meal, or even tossed with pasta.
Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or toppings to make it your own.

Key Ingredients:

Patty Pan Squash: Look for squash that are firm, vibrant, and free of blemishes. Smaller squash are tender and cook quickly, while larger ones may need slicing and slightly longer cooking times.
Olive Oil: Use a good-quality olive oil for sautéing; its flavor pairs beautifully with the squash and garlic.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste—more for bold garlic lovers!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill complement the squash’s mild flavor, but dried herbs can work in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, Parmesan adds a savory, nutty richness to the dish. Use freshly grated for the best flavor.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Step-by-Step Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

Wash and Trim:
Rinse the patty pan squash thoroughly under cold water.
Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Trim off any stems or rough edges using a sharp knife.

Cut as Needed:
Small squash: Leave whole.
Medium squash: Cut into halves or quarters.
Large squash: Slice into bite-sized wedges for even cooking.

Season the Squash:
Place the squash pieces in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle with olive oil (about 1-2 tablespoons) to coat.
Add minced garlic (1-2 cloves), salt, and pepper to taste.
Toss to ensure each piece is evenly coated with seasoning.
(Optional: Add a pinch of your favorite herbs, like thyme, rosemary, or oregano, for extra flavor.)

Step 2: Cook the Squash

Heat the Pan:
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers.

Sauté the Squash:
Place the seasoned squash in the skillet in a single layer.
Avoid overcrowding to ensure even browning; cook in batches if necessary.
Sauté for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the squash develops a golden-brown crust and is tender when pierced with a fork.

Add Garlic and Herbs:
During the last minute of cooking, add any remaining minced garlic and a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or dill).
Stir gently to incorporate. Allow the garlic to release its aroma, but don’t let it burn.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to a Serving Dish:
Remove the cooked squash from the skillet and arrange it on a serving dish.

Optional Toppings:
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the warm squash for a savory, melty finish.
Add additional fresh herbs for color and flavor.

Serve:
Serve the patty pan squash immediately while warm.
Pairings: This dish complements grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It can also be enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian option or a side for pasta or rice.

Serving Suggestions:

Patty pan squash is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains and other sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

Grilled Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced and flavorful meal.
Vegetarian Meal: Pair with a hearty grain like quinoa, couscous, or farro for a complete vegetarian plate.
Pasta Partner: Toss the sautéed squash with cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a quick and light main dish.
Rice or Risotto: Serve over a bed of rice or creamy risotto for a comforting side or entrée.
Brunch Option: Add the cooked squash to an omelet, frittata, or as a topping for avocado toast.

Storage and Reheating:

Refrigeration: Store leftover squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or in the microwave in short intervals.
Freezing: While fresh squash is best, you can freeze cooked patty pan squash for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

Variations:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for heat.
Herb Explosion: Try a combination of herbs like basil, tarragon, or chives for extra flavor.
Citrusy Zing: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness.
Cheesy Delight: Swap Parmesan for crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or chopped walnuts for added texture.

Conclusion:

Patty pan squash is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. This quick and easy side dish highlights the natural sweetness and tender texture of the squash, enhanced by the rich flavors of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs.

Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With its versatility and deliciousness, patty pan squash will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.