Yellow Squash Loaf
A savory zucchini loaf featuring seasoned pork sausage, herbs, and a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners or brunch with its comforting and flavorful profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrape and parboil the yellow squash until half cooked.
- Drain the squash in a colander while preparing the other ingredients.
- Fry the seasoned pork sausage in a skillet; drain off the grease.
- Saute the chopped onion in some of the sausage grease.
- Add chopped parsley and garlic; fry briefly to release flavors.
- Add the chopped cooked squash and sausage to the skillet; fry until water is absorbed.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl.
- Add the egg, salt, pepper, and enough cracker crumbs to hold the mixture together.
- Put the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with a few cracker crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake until the top is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting zucchini for the yellow squash for a different flavor profile. You can also use turkey sausage instead of pork for a lighter option. If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic. Ensure the squash is well-drained to prevent a watery loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This yellow squash loaf makes a hearty side dish or a light main course. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as a Chef'S Salad-Stuffed Tomatoes, or alongside grilled meats. For a complete meal, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt dressing for added creaminess and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dish better than the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yellow Squash Loaf contains roughly 596 calories, with 21g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (127% of the Daily Value), potassium (63% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 556mg per serving (24% 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 freeze the yellow squash loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the yellow squash loaf. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with the yellow squash loaf?
This dish pairs well with various sides like roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with baked chicken or fish. It also complements American recipes like Hanky Pank Sandwiches for a casual gathering.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the pork sausage and using a meat substitute like lentils or mushrooms for added texture. You may also want to enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the savory taste of sausage.
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).