Cajun Squash
Cajun Squash offers a flavorful side with tender slices of yellow squash cooked in butter, seasoned with Cajun-inspired spices and vegetables. Its rich, savory taste pairs well with grilled meats or seafood, making it a versatile dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3 lb. yellow squash ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. dried onion ⓘ
- 5 Tbsp. butter or margarine, divided ⓘ
- 3/4 c. onion, coarsely chopped ⓘ
- 3/4 c. chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped bell pepper ⓘ
- 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can cream of celery soup ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chili sauce ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. Tabasco sauce ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. seasoned salt
- 1/4 tsp. baking powder ⓘ
Instructions
- Wash unpeeled squash and slice thinly.
- Combine 1 teaspoon salt, dried onion, and 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture for 15 minutes without adding water, letting the squash cook in butter and its own juice.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. If you want a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup. For a spicy kick, increase the Tabasco sauce or add diced jalapeños. If yellow squash isn't available, zucchini can be used as a great alternative in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Cajun Squash pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it with a hearty salad or crusty bread, such as Peasant Rye, for a satisfying touch. This dish also complements American recipes like Bread Stuffing For Turkey during festive occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun Squash contains roughly 278 calories, with 12g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (47% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1254mg per serving (55% 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 fresh herbs instead of dried onion?
Yes, fresh herbs can add a vibrant flavor to the dish. Use about 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh onion or shallots as a substitute for dried onion. Just remember to sauté them in butter until softened before adding the squash.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Use a plant-based cream of celery soup, which is available in many grocery stores. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors in a vegan-friendly version.
Can I freeze the Cajun Squash?
Yes, you can freeze Cajun Squash. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.
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).