Basil-Garlic Squash
Bright and flavorful grilled squash and zucchini with fresh basil and garlic, perfect for summer barbecues or light dinners with vibrant herbal notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped fresh basil, olive oil, water, salt, and minced garlic to make the herb mixture.
- Brush the squash and zucchini with half of the mixture.
- Spray the grill rack with vegetable spray oil.
- Place the vegetables cut side down over medium-hot coals.
- Cook for 3 minutes.
- Turn the vegetables and brush with the remaining herb mixture.
- Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a subtle kick. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used, but reduce the quantity to about 1 tsp. Grilling the vegetables over medium-hot coals ensures they char beautifully while remaining tender. Keep an eye on cooking times, as smaller squash may cook faster.
Serving Suggestions
Basil-Garlic Squash makes a delightful side dish, especially alongside grilled meats or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and consider pairing it with a light salad or serving it with *Spinach With Rice for a wholesome vegetarian option. A chilled glass of white wine complements this dish beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a minute or two, but be cautious not to overcook to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil-Garlic Squash contains roughly 472 calories, with 3g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (64% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 884mg per serving (38% 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 use other vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different vegetables may require more or less time on the grill.
What can I serve with Basil-Garlic Squash?
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a robust meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside Mediterranean recipes like Pasta With Cannellini Beans for a fulfilling vegetarian option. A refreshing garden salad would also complement the flavors well.
How can I make this a vegan recipe?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! The ingredients used, including olive oil and fresh vegetables, align perfectly with a vegan diet. You can enhance it further by adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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).