Broiled Squash
Broiled stuffed yellow squash offers a delightful combination of tender squash shells filled with a flavorful mashed mixture of chilies, pimiento, and herbs, then broiled to a golden crisp. Perfect for a light vegetarian main or side dish, it's quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place squash in a saucepan; add water to cover and bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat and simmer 6 minutes or until tender but still firm.
- Drain.
- Cut squash in half lengthwise, leaving stems intact.
- Remove pulp, leaving 1/4-inch thick shells.
- Mash pulp; add green chilies, pimiento, garlic powder, white pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Stir well.
- Spoon mixture into the squash shells.
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
- Arrange squash on a rack in a roasting pan coated with vegetable cooking spray.
- Broil 5 1/2 inches from heat for 8 minutes or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor twist, consider adding grated cheese or cooked quinoa to the filling mixture. You can substitute yellow squash with zucchini if desired. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using jalapeños instead of green chilies. Ensure the squash is not overcooked during boiling; it should remain firm for optimal texture when broiled.
Serving Suggestions
Broiled squash makes a delightful side dish to accompany grilled meats or fish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or pair it with a light pasta dish for a complete meal. For an inspired combination, try it with Wheat Germ Cookies(Sugarless) for dessert, offering a well-rounded dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover broiled squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but be cautious as this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broiled Squash contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 squash and filling ahead of time. After assembling, cover and refrigerate until ready to broil. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when cooked. Just be sure to broil it fresh to maintain the crispy topping.
What can I substitute for the breadcrumbs?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using crushed cornflakes or ground almonds instead of breadcrumbs. You can also use oats or ground flaxseed for a different texture. Each alternative will provide a unique flavor while still achieving that satisfying crunch on top.
Can I freeze the broiled squash?
Freezing broiled squash is not recommended as it can affect the texture once thawed. However, you can freeze the filling mixture before stuffing the squash shells. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator and then proceed to stuff and broil the squash for the best results.
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).