Yellow squash is a versatile summer vegetable that can transform your meals from ordinary to extraordinary. With its mild flavor and tender texture, this bright vegetable works well in everything from casseroles to sandwiches, and even desserts.
Whether you’re dealing with a bumper crop from your garden or just looking to add more vegetables to your diet, yellow squash offers endless possibilities.
You can prepare yellow squash using various cooking methods. These include roasting, grilling, sautéing, baking, and frying to create delicious meals your family will love.
From simple side dishes like sautéed yellow squash with herbs to more substantial options like stuffed squash and vegetable quesadillas, this humble vegetable adapts to nearly any cuisine. Even those who typically shy away from vegetables might find themselves reaching for seconds when yellow squash is prepared in these enticing ways.
1. Baked Yellow Squash with Parmesan
This simple dish needs just a few ingredients to create a tasty side. Thinly slice yellow squash, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
Top the slices with grated Parmesan cheese before baking. The cheese creates a crispy, savory crust while the squash stays tender underneath.
Bake at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of garlic salt or fresh herbs like thyme or basil before serving.
This recipe works perfectly as a quick side dish or light lunch option. It’s also a great way to use up summer squash when it’s in season.
2. Southern Yellow Squash Casserole
Southern Yellow Squash Casserole is a classic dish that transforms simple yellow summer squash into a rich, comforting side. This popular recipe combines thinly sliced yellow squash with onions for a flavorful base.
The creamy filling typically includes sour cream, eggs, and cheese, giving the casserole its signature richness. You’ll find these ingredients create a perfect balance of flavors.
What makes this dish truly special is its buttery cracker topping. Most recipes call for Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter for that crispy, golden crust.
This casserole is ideal for summer gatherings when yellow squash is abundant. You can easily prepare it ahead of time for family dinners or potlucks.
3. Sautéed Yellow Squash with Herbs
Sautéed yellow squash makes a quick and delicious summer side dish that highlights the vegetable’s natural flavors. You’ll need fresh yellow squash, garlic, and your favorite herbs to create this simple recipe.
Start by slicing your squash into even rounds or half-moons. Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the squash along with minced garlic.
Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme add bright flavor to the dish. Cook until the squash is tender but still slightly crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
For extra flavor, finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
4. Grilled Yellow Squash and Zucchini
Grilling yellow squash and zucchini creates a delicious side dish with minimal effort. You can simply halve the squash lengthwise, brush with a mixture of olive oil and herbs, and place them on a hot grill.
For extra flavor, add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your squash before grilling. Some recipes suggest grilling the vegetables in foil packets with butter, which helps them become tender while retaining moisture.
You can enhance this dish by adding a sprinkle of feta cheese and a squeeze of lemon after grilling. This makes a perfect summer side that pairs well with almost any main course.
The grill marks add visual appeal and a slightly smoky flavor that transforms these simple vegetables into something special.
5. Fried Yellow Squash Slices
Fried yellow squash is a simple comfort food that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s a great way to enjoy summer squash and might even convince picky eaters to eat their vegetables.
To make fried squash, wash and dry fresh yellow squash, then slice it into 1/4-inch rounds. Dip the slices in a batter or coating mixture.
Many recipes use cornmeal for extra crispiness, while others use boxed cornbread mix or flour seasoned with pepper and parsley. Heat oil in a pan and fry the coated slices until golden brown on both sides.
This dish is quick to prepare and makes a delicious side for almost any meal.
6. Stuffed Yellow Squash Boats
Stuffed yellow squash boats make a delicious and healthy meal option. To prepare, cut yellow squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh to create boat-like shells.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. The hollow squash can be filled with various mixtures according to your taste preferences. Popular fillings include combinations of the scooped-out squash flesh, quinoa, vegetables, or taco meat.
For a low-carb option, try stuffing with a mix of tomatoes and onions. You can also add minced garlic and olive oil for extra flavor. Top with cheese and bake until the squash is tender and the filling is hot.
7. Roasted Yellow Squash Rounds
Roasted yellow squash rounds are a simple yet delicious side dish that requires minimal effort. All you need are yellow squash, Parmesan cheese, and some basic seasonings.
Slice your squash into even rounds about ¼-inch thick. Arrange them on a baking sheet, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and add Italian herbs if desired.
Roast at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the squash, creating a delightful flavor.
This versatile dish pairs well with almost any main course. You can also try the same method with zucchini for variety.
8. Yellow Squash and Onion Pie
Yellow Squash and Onion Pie transforms simple garden vegetables into a delicious meal. This savory pie combines tender yellow squash with sweet onions for a perfect flavor pairing.
To make this dish, sauté sliced squash and onions in butter until soft. Mix in eggs, cheese, and your favorite spices for added flavor. The mixture gets poured into a pie crust and baked until golden.
You can customize this versatile pie with additions like Italian sausage or other summer vegetables. Some versions are even made crustless for a lighter option that’s still rich and cheesy.
9. Yellow Squash Fritters
Yellow squash fritters are a crispy, delicious alternative to hash browns. They make great side dishes or appetizers that the whole family will enjoy.
These fritters combine shredded yellow squash with ingredients like onion, flour, egg, and cheese. You can enhance the flavor with seasonings like salt, Old Bay, or even a dash of hot sauce.
Some recipes use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness, while others rely on flour alone. You can cook them traditionally in oil or try a healthier baked version.
The prep is quick and straightforward – shred the squash, mix with other ingredients, form patties, and cook until golden brown. They’re ready in about 30 minutes.
10. Curried Yellow Squash Soup
This velvety soup transforms yellow summer squash into a luxurious dish that’s both gluten-free and vegan. The combination of creamy coconut milk and spicy curry creates a perfect balance of flavors.
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients – yellow squash, onion, garlic, coconut milk, and curry paste or powder. The preparation is straightforward and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
For extra protein, consider adding tofu as some recipes suggest. The soup works well year-round but is especially appealing in summer when squash is abundant in gardens and farmers’ markets.
This soup offers a delicious way to use up extra squash while enjoying the vibrant flavors of Thai-inspired cuisine.
11. Cheesy Squash and Rice Bake
Cheesy Squash and Rice Bake combines yellow squash with rice and cheese for a delicious side dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
You can use summer squash, zucchini, or a combination of both for this versatile casserole. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the savory cheese and hearty rice.
To prepare this dish, simply layer cooked rice and sliced squash, then pour a creamy cheese sauce over the top. Bake until the edges bubble and the cheese turns slightly brown, about 30-40 minutes.
This casserole works as both a side dish or a vegetarian main course. It’s also a great way to use abundant summer squash.
12. Yellow Squash Pasta Primavera
Yellow Squash Pasta Primavera is a fresh and colorful dish perfect for using your garden harvest. The mild flavor of yellow squash works beautifully with other spring and summer vegetables.
To make this dish, simply sauté yellow squash with vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots. Mix with your favorite pasta and a light sauce.
You can choose between a creamy option with goat cheese or a lighter version with olive oil and herbs. Fresh basil adds wonderful flavor to this pasta dish.
This recipe is versatile – use whatever vegetables you have on hand. The yellow squash adds a tender texture and subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
13. Marinated Yellow Squash Salad
Thinly sliced yellow squash makes a perfect base for a refreshing marinated salad. The key is cutting the squash into paper-thin slices so they absorb the flavors better.
Create a simple marinade with vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh thyme. Season with salt and pepper, then slowly whisk in oil to bring it all together.
You can enhance your salad by adding red onion curls and fresh herbs. For extra flavor and texture, consider incorporating mushrooms, chickpeas, or feta cheese.
This bright, vibrant dish works well as a summer side or light lunch. The acidic marinade softens the squash slightly while maintaining its fresh crunch.
14. Yellow Squash and Corn Chowder
Yellow Squash and Corn Chowder is a perfect summer soup that combines fresh ingredients for a delicious meal. This rich and creamy dish features sweet corn kernels and diced yellow squash as its stars.
You can enhance the flavor with herbs and aromatics like onions, shallots, or leeks. Some recipes include poblano or jalapeño peppers for a bit of heat.
For extra richness, try topping your chowder with crisp bacon pieces and shredded cheddar cheese. This versatile soup works as a light lunch or dinner option during squash season.
The combination of sweet corn and tender squash creates a balanced flavor that’s both satisfying and fresh.
15. Spicy Yellow Squash Tacos
Yellow squash makes a delicious base for vegetarian tacos. Cut the squash into chunks and lightly char them on a grill or in a hot pan to bring out their natural sweetness.
For extra flavor, season your squash with chipotle peppers, which add a smoky heat that complements the mild vegetable. Add some pinto beans for protein and texture.
Serve your squash mixture in warm corn tortillas. Top with fresh pico de gallo, sliced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice.
These tacos are perfect for summer when yellow squash is abundant. They’re easy to make and provide a lighter alternative to meat-based tacos.
16. Zesty Lemon Yellow Squash
This bright and flavorful dish brings out the best in yellow squash with a pop of citrus. Fresh lemon juice and zest add a tangy kick that balances the mild flavor of the squash perfectly.
You can prepare this recipe in under 15 minutes. Simply slice your yellow squash into thin rounds and sauté in olive oil until tender but still slightly crisp.
Finish by tossing with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of oregano. For added flavor, mix in some chopped fresh mint and crumbled feta cheese before serving. This makes a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or fish.
17. Harissa Spiced Squash Ribbons
Harissa brings a wonderful North African heat to yellow squash in this simple yet flavorful dish. Use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons from your squash for quick cooking and elegant presentation.
Toss the squash ribbons with harissa paste, olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice. You can adjust the amount of harissa based on your spice preference.
For added texture, consider topping with crispy chickpeas. A dollop of lemony yogurt on the side helps balance the heat from the harissa while adding a creamy element to the dish.
This versatile recipe works as a side dish or as a base for a main course when topped with protein of your choice.
18. Yellow Squash Gratin
Yellow Squash Gratin combines tender yellow squash with zucchini for a creamy, cheesy side dish. This casserole brings out the natural sweetness of summer squash with minimal effort.
To make it, slice yellow squash and zucchini thinly and layer them in a buttered baking dish. Some recipes add potatoes for extra heartiness.
Pour heavy cream over the vegetables and top with sharp cheddar cheese. A buttery breadcrumb topping adds a perfect crunch when baked.
This versatile dish pairs well with almost any meal. You can customize it by adding garlic, onions, or different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.
19. Squash and Tomato Bruschetta
Yellow squash transforms ordinary bruschetta into a colorful summer treat. Thinly slice and slow-roast your squash until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized.
Top your toasted bread with the roasted squash, fresh tomatoes, and complementary flavors like creamy chèvre or tangy balsamic vinegar. Fresh herbs such as basil or tarragon add brightness to the dish.
For a heartier version, try making yellow squash boats. Hollow out the squash and fill with a mixture of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and fresh basil.
This appetizer works well for summer gatherings, using the season’s bounty of yellow squash and ripe tomatoes in one delicious bite.
20. Yellow Squash Curry
Yellow squash curry is a flavorful way to use your summer harvest. The mild flavor of yellow squash absorbs the rich curry spices beautifully.
You can make this dish with Thai red curry paste or traditional Indian curry powder. Both versions create a delicious meal that pairs perfectly with rice or flatbread.
For a quick weeknight dinner, simply sauté diced yellow squash with onions, then add curry paste, vegetable stock, and coconut milk. Let it simmer until the squash is tender.
This dish typically takes about 35 minutes from start to finish. The creamy texture and warm spices make it a comforting meal any time of year.
21. Squash and Black Bean Enchiladas
Squash and black bean enchiladas make a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. You can use either butternut or yellow summer squash for this versatile dish.
These enchiladas combine protein-rich black beans with sweet, tender squash for a flavorful vegetarian option. The combination creates a filling meal that even meat-eaters will enjoy.
You can prepare this dish as traditional rolled enchiladas or as a convenient skillet version that comes together in about 30 minutes. Top with your favorite enchilada sauce and cheese for a complete meal.
For extra flavor, consider adding goat cheese or your favorite Mexican-style seasonings to the filling.
Nutritional Benefits of Yellow Squash
Yellow squash packs an impressive nutritional punch while remaining low in calories. This versatile vegetable offers numerous health benefits through its rich nutrient profile.
Vitamins and Minerals
Yellow squash contains an abundance of essential nutrients your body needs. It’s particularly high in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function.
A single cup of yellow squash provides about 10% of your daily vitamin A needs.
The vegetable also delivers significant amounts of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps protect your cells and promotes collagen production.
You’ll find good amounts of B vitamins in yellow squash too, especially B6 and riboflavin, which support energy metabolism.
Mineral content is another strong point. Yellow squash provides potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function. It also contains magnesium, phosphorus, and folate – nutrients that support everything from bone health to cell division.
These nutrients work together to provide anti-inflammatory benefits that may support overall health, including cognitive function and immune system response.
Low-Calorie and Fiber Content
Yellow squash is an excellent choice for weight management. With only about 18 calories per cup, you can enjoy generous portions without concern for calorie intake.
The vegetable is virtually fat-free yet provides satisfying fiber that helps you feel full longer. This combination makes it ideal for weight loss or maintenance plans.
The fiber in yellow squash also supports digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and feeding beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut contributes to better nutrient absorption and immune function.
For those watching their carbohydrate intake, yellow squash is a perfect option. It’s naturally low in carbs while still providing essential nutrients and dietary fiber.
Adding more yellow squash to your diet can help increase your vegetable consumption without adding many calories, making it easier to maintain a balanced, nutrient-dense eating pattern.
Cooking Techniques for Yellow Squash
Yellow squash transforms wonderfully under different cooking methods, each bringing out unique flavors and textures in this versatile vegetable. The right technique can turn this simple summer produce into a standout dish.
Roasting for Enhanced Flavor
Roasting yellow squash intensifies its natural sweetness while creating a delicious caramelized exterior.
Preheat your oven to 425°F for best results. Cut squash into even pieces – slices or cubes work well – to ensure uniform cooking.
Toss your squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, add garlic powder, Italian herbs, or paprika.
Spread pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, giving them space to brown properly.
Roast for 20-25 minutes until edges turn golden brown and the interior becomes tender. Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
The high heat helps remove excess moisture, preventing sogginess and concentrating flavors.
This method requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals.
Grilling for a Smoky Taste
Grilling adds appealing char marks and a distinctive smoky flavor to yellow squash. Slice squash lengthwise into ¼-inch planks for best results. Thicker cuts prevent the squash from becoming too soft on the grill.
Brush both sides with oil and season with salt and pepper before placing on a preheated grill (medium-high heat). Grill each side for 3-4 minutes until tender with visible grill marks.
Try these grilling enhancements:
- Marinate squash in Italian dressing for 30 minutes before grilling
- Sprinkle with herbs like thyme or rosemary before cooking
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Grilled yellow squash makes an excellent side dish for summer barbecues. It can also be added to salads and sandwiches for smoky depth. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully over open flame.
