Coated in a seasoned breading and roasted until golden brown, Roasted Summer Squash is a delightful dish that makes for an ideal side at any gathering. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of summer squash while providing a crispy texture that everyone will love. It’s perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or even as a light snack. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple on your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Twist: The combination of Parmesan cheese and lemon pepper seasoning enhances the natural taste of the squash, creating a savory experience.
- Versatile Side Dish: It pairs well with various main courses, whether you’re serving chicken, fish, or a hearty grain bowl.
- Health-Conscious Choice: Low in calories yet rich in flavor, this recipe fits well into healthy eating plans.
- Kid-Friendly Option: The crispy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing to children, helping them enjoy their veggies.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delicious roasted summer squash, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan: Ensures even roasting and browning of the squash.
- Mixing bowl: Allows for easy tossing of the ingredients for thorough coating.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 pound summer squash (about 2 medium)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Panko bread crumbs
– 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Roasted Summer Squash
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Squash
- Cut the squash into ½ slices.
- Toss the slices with olive oil in a mixing bowl until evenly coated.
Step 3: Season the Squash
- In another small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, Panko bread crumbs, lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, and kosher salt.
- Sprinkle this mixture over the squash and toss until all slices are well coated.
Step 4: Roast the Squash
- Place the seasoned squash on a baking pan in a single layer.
- Roast for about 12-14 minutes or until the squash is tender.
- Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until the breadcrumbs are lightly browned.
Enjoy your flavorful and crispy Roasted Summer Squash as a delightful side dish!
How to Serve Roasted Summer Squash
Roasted summer squash is a delightful side dish that pairs well with various meals. Its savory flavor and crispy texture complement many main courses, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table.
With Grilled Chicken
- Flavor Combination: The smoky taste of grilled chicken enhances the natural sweetness of roasted summer squash.
- Serving Suggestion: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon over both dishes for brightness.
Alongside Quinoa Salad
- Nutritious Pairing: Quinoa salad adds protein and fiber, balancing the lightness of the roasted squash.
- Serving Suggestion: Toss in some fresh herbs to elevate both dishes.
As Part of a Veggie Platter
- Colorful Display: Roasted summer squash can be included in a platter with other roasted vegetables for a vibrant presentation.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a yogurt dip or hummus for added flavor.
With Pasta Primavera
- Culinary Match: The seasonal flavors of pasta primavera pair beautifully with the roasted squash.
- Serving Suggestion: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for richness.
How to Perfect Roasted Summer Squash
To achieve the best results when making roasted summer squash, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with spices. A generous amount of lemon pepper seasoning will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Bold cut size: Make sure all slices are uniform (½ inch) for even cooking and consistent texture.
- Bold roasting temperature: Preheat your oven fully to 400°F to ensure proper roasting without steaming the squash.
- Bold oil coating: Use just enough olive oil to coat each piece evenly, which helps in achieving that golden brown finish.
- Bold final broil: Broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end will add an irresistible crispiness to the topping.
Best Side Dishes for Roasted Summer Squash
Roasted summer squash pairs well with numerous side dishes, enhancing any meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the roasted texture.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and a pop of color that complements roasted squash perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine leaves tossed in Caesar dressing add crunch and zest alongside your savory dish.
- Brown Rice Pilaf: A nutty brown rice pilaf offers heartiness and complements the flavors without overwhelming them.
- Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes for a light and flavorful pairing with roasted squash.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles lightly sautéed; they mirror the squash’s flavor profile beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Roasted Summer Squash is a simple yet delicious dish, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:
- Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure your squash roasts perfectly.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too much squash on the baking sheet can cause steaming instead of roasting. Spread the slices out for even browning.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season your squash can result in bland flavors. Use the recommended spices or get creative with your favorite herbs.
- Not Adjusting Cooking Time: Every oven is different. Check your squash regularly and adjust cooking times as needed for optimal tenderness.
- Cutting Uneven Sizes: If your squash pieces are not uniform, they may cook at different rates. Aim for consistent thickness to ensure even roasting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store roasted summer squash in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure it has cooled down before sealing the container.
Freezing Roasted Summer Squash
- Place cooled roasted squash in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Roasted Summer Squash
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, spread the squash on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place squash in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté for about 5 minutes until warmed and slightly crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best summer squash?
Choosing firm, unblemished summer squash will give you the best results. Look for vibrant colors and smooth skin.
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on roasted summer squash, you can use zucchini or yellow squash as well.
What can I serve with Roasted Summer Squash?
Roasted Summer Squash pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a vegetable medley. It’s perfect as a side dish!
How do I make Roasted Summer Squash crispy?
Ensure that your slices are not too thick and avoid overcrowding the pan. Broiling at the end will also help achieve crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Roasted Summer Squash is a delightful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of summer veggies. Its versatility allows you to customize seasonings or pair it with various meals. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delicious simplicity!
Roasted Summer Squash
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Roasted Summer Squash is a scrumptious side dish that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of summer squash with a crispy, golden-brown breading. This easy recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The delightful combination of Parmesan cheese and lemon pepper seasoning adds a savory twist, ensuring this dish will be a favorite among kids and adults alike. Whether served alongside grilled meats, tossed in salads, or enjoyed as a light snack, Roasted Summer Squash is versatile and nutritious. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a staple on your dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound summer squash (about 2 medium)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the squash into ½-inch slices and toss with olive oil in a mixing bowl until evenly coated.
- In another bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, Panko bread crumbs, lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, and kosher salt. Sprinkle over the squash and toss until well-coated.
- Spread the seasoned squash on a baking pan in a single layer and roast for 12-14 minutes until tender. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve a crispy topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, experiment with different seasonings or herbs. Ensure uniform slice thickness for even roasting. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.