Herbed Summer Squash
Herbed Summer Squash is a vibrant, fresh dish showcasing tender zucchini, pattypan, and yellow crookneck squash tossed with fragrant herbs and green onions. Perfect for summer dinners or as a light side, it highlights bright flavors and quick preparation, appealing to vegetable lovers and those seeking healthy, flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse and scrub the squash, then cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Place the cubed squash in a 3-quart microwave-safe casserole dish.
- Add 2 tablespoons of water and microwave on High for 5 to 6 minutes, until just tender-crisp.
- Stir the squash twice during cooking.
- Drain the squash and transfer to a bowl.
- In the same casserole, combine olive oil and chopped green onions.
- Microwave on High for 3 minutes, then stir once.
- Add dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and red wine vinegar to the mixture.
- Pour the herb mixture over the cooked squash.
- Toss thoroughly to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the herb mixture. If you prefer, substitute the zucchini with other summer vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant. Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried; just double the amount for a vibrant taste. Make sure not to overcook the squash to maintain a slight crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This herbed summer squash makes a delightful side dish and pairs beautifully with Grilled Barracuda or alongside Lemony Green Beans for a complete meal. Consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or couscous for added texture. It's also a great addition to Mediterranean recipes, enhancing pasta dishes or grain bowls.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the squash for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can sauté them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes to bring back the fresh flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Summer Squash contains roughly 49 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium.
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 different types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with other summer squashes like yellow squash or even some colorful varieties. Just ensure they are similar in size for even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can cook a larger batch and store it in the fridge. It reheats well and can be eaten warm or cold, making it versatile for lunch or dinner.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make this herbed summer squash more filling, consider adding cooked grains like quinoa or farro. You could also toss in some chickpeas or black beans for added protein and texture.
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).