Baked Squash Ring
A savory baked squash ring featuring tender summer squash blended with eggs, herbs, and breadcrumbs, ideal as a comforting side dish or light vegetarian main.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and dice the unpeeled summer squash.
- Cook the diced squash in a small amount of water uncovered until tender.
- Mash the cooked squash well or pass through a food mill or sieve.
- Add the beaten eggs, salt, white pepper, minced onion, melted butter, milk, buttered bread crumbs, and fine herbs; blend well.
- Turn the mixture into a well-buttered 1 1/2-quart ring mold.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Baked Squash Ring, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture before baking. For a different twist, you can substitute zucchini for the summer squash or use gluten-free bread crumbs. If you're short on time, pre-cooked squash can also be used. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if using a different type of squash.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Baked Squash Ring warm as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Nutmeg Coffee Cake for a delightful meal. For a vegetarian option, slice it and serve on a bed of fresh greens with a light vinaigrette. You can also complement it with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the Baked Squash Ring in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Squash Ring contains roughly 265 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1167mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Baked Squash Ring a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, then cool it completely before covering and refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat it in the oven as directed, ensuring it's heated through before slicing.
What can I substitute for white pepper?
If you don't have white pepper, black pepper is a suitable substitute. However, keep in mind that it will alter the appearance slightly. For a milder flavor, you can also use a pinch of smoked paprika or omit it altogether, especially if you're serving to guests who may have varied spice preferences.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, the Baked Squash Ring can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).