Squash Oregano
A simple, flavorful dish featuring roasted yellow squash seasoned with oregano, salt, and pepper, perfect as a healthy side for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the small yellow squash in half lengthwise.
- Pour melted butter over each squash half.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Bake at 350°F until tender-crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using garlic powder or fresh minced garlic along with the oregano. If you prefer a different herb, thyme or basil can be good substitutes. Make sure to slice the squash evenly for consistent cooking. If the squash is larger, adjust the baking time accordingly. This dish is also versatile enough to be served alongside Spinach Stuffed Peppers for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked squash as a side dish to grilled meats or fish, or enjoy it as part of a vegetarian meal alongside dishes like Pasta With Roasted Veggies. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate the dish even further. Consider pairing it with a light salad such as Yogurt Cucumber Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to overcook and make it mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Oregano contains roughly 78 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 491mg 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use other types of squash such as zucchini or acorn squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. For zucchini, you might want to reduce the baking time since it cooks faster than yellow squash.
How do I know when the squash is done baking?
The squash is ready when it is tender-crisp. You can test this by inserting a fork; it should easily pierce the flesh but still have a bit of firmness. Baking time can vary based on the size of the squash halves, so keep an eye on them.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This squash can be prepared ahead of time and reheats well, making it great for meal prep. Just prepare the dish as instructed, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
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).