Mary Jane'S Squash
Mary Jane's Squash is a comforting side dish featuring tender crookneck squash layered with onions and seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Cooked in butter until tender, it offers a delightful combination of sweetness and savory flavors, perfect for summer meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the crookneck squash crosswise into wheels.
- Layer the sliced squash in a saucepan with sliced onion, salt, pepper, and dotted butter on top.
- Place the pan on medium heat and cover with a hot lid.
- Reduce to a simmer and stir from time to time until the squash is tender, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose firm crookneck squash with a vibrant yellow color. If you don't have onion, leeks or shallots can be a suitable substitute. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, and consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor. You can also layer in other vegetables like bell peppers for additional color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary Jane's Squash as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. It pairs beautifully with Grilled French Bread for a hearty option. For added flavor, consider drizzling a homemade sauce, like a Delicious Vegetable Dip, over the squash before serving. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for a minute or two, but be cautious not to overcook it, as it can become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Jane'S Squash contains roughly 15 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 492mg per serving (21% 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 types of squash in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute crookneck squash with zucchini or yellow squash. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as these squash varieties may cook faster. The flavors will still be delicious and complement the onions well.
What can I serve with Mary Jane's Squash?
This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetarian spread. Consider serving it alongside other vegetable dishes or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal. It also complements grains like quinoa or brown rice.
How can I make this recipe more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs such as thyme or basil while cooking. A splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the dish. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
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).