Summer Squash Skillet
A colorful summer squash skillet featuring tender patty pan squash, tomatoes, and aromatic green peppers, perfect for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion and green pepper in butter until tender.
- Stir in sugar, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add cubed patty pan squash and peeled tomato wedges.
- Cook over low heat just until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning while cooking the vegetables. If you don't have patty pan squash, zucchini or yellow squash can be great substitutes. To add a touch of heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños. This dish is a wonderful way to use up summer produce, making it a perfect choice for seasonal cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant skillet dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a refreshing summer lunch. For a vegetarian option, serve it over quinoa or rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks or as a side during barbecues, making it a versatile addition to any summer gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water while reheating can help retain moisture and prevent the vegetables from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Squash Skillet contains roughly 137 calories, with 9g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (127% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1786mg per serving (78% 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 frozen squash for this recipe?
While fresh patty pan squash provides the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen squash if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted, as frozen vegetables can cook more quickly.
What can I serve with Summer Squash Skillet?
This dish complements a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. For a complete vegetarian meal, consider serving it over grains like quinoa or with a side of crusty bread. It also pairs well with a light salad for a refreshing summer lunch.
How do I know when the vegetables are done cooking?
The vegetables are done when they are tender but still have a bit of bite. You can check by piercing them with a fork; they should be easily pierced but not mushy. Cooking over low heat allows the flavors to meld while ensuring the vegetables retain their shape.
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).