Squash Haters Zucchini
A creamy zucchini dish with crispy bacon and savory onion, perfect for vegetable lovers seeking a comforting, flavorful side or light main with a hint of bacon's richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel zucchini and remove seeds.
- Shred zucchini and add to salt and boiling water.
- Boil for 3 minutes, stirring often.
- Drain and reserve 1/3 cup of the squash liquid.
- Remove zucchini from pan.
- Saute diced bacon until crisp; remove from pan.
- Saute diced onion in the bacon fat until golden and soft.
- Add flour to the onion and bacon mixture; stir well.
- Add reserved squash liquid and bring to a boil.
- Stir in sour cream and combine with the cooked zucchini.
- Sprinkle bacon over the top just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose firm, fresh zucchini. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon instead of pork bacon. Additionally, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option. Ensure to drain the zucchini thoroughly after boiling to avoid excess moisture in the dish, which can dilute flavors. This dish can be an excellent side for American recipes like Smothered Pork Roast.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served warm, topped with the crispy bacon just before serving. It pairs wonderfully with a simple salad, such as Broccoli Mandarin Orange Salad, or alongside grilled meats for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it with crusty bread or over rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave the dish in short intervals, ensuring it heats evenly without becoming watery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Haters Zucchini contains roughly 200 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1943mg per serving (84% 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 instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute yellow squash or any other mild-flavored summer squash. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, and ensure to adjust for moisture content if using a different type.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made in advance. Just reheat gently before serving. It's a great option for busy weeknights, providing a quick and tasty side dish to accompany your main course.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the onions. You can add extra seasoning, such as smoked paprika or liquid smoke, to mimic the bacon flavor. The dish will still be creamy and delicious with the sour cream and zucchini.
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).