When the sun graces us with its warm summer glow, my cravings steer away from the heavy, calorie-laden meals that tend to weigh me down. Instead, I reach for something vibrant and fresh, like sautéed patty pan squash. This dish is a delightful reminder that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.
Imagine tender pieces of patty pan squash, kissed by golden, sizzling garlic, and lifted by the zest of lemon and a pinch of red pepper flakes. The aroma fills your kitchen, teasing your senses, and before you know it, you have a beautiful side dish ready in under 20 minutes.
Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight treat, this sautéed patty pan squash is sure to impress anyone at your table. Plus, it’s vegetarian and stunningly versatile, making it an ideal way to add a punch of flavor to any meal. Join me in whipping up this easy side dish that bursts with flavor and health!
Why is Sautéed Patty Pan Squash a Must-Try?
Quick and simple: You can whip this up in less than 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Flavor explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon zest, and parmesan delivers a delightful taste experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Healthy choice: With just 155 calories per serving, this dish is nutritious yet satisfying, rich in vitamins A and C.
Versatile side: Pair it with grilled meats or salads, or serve alone as a light, refreshing dish.
Crowd pleaser: Its vibrant colors and aromatic flavors make it an instant favorite, even among veggie skeptics.
Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your meal with this quick and delicious side!
Ingredients for Sautéed Patty Pan Squash
• Make sure you have these flavorful elements ready to create your quick and delicious dish!
For the Sauté
- Extra virgin olive oil – A heart-healthy fat that adds depth, and can be swapped for avocado oil for a unique twist.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Aromatic and flavorful, fresh garlic is optimal, but jarred minced garlic works well in a pinch.
- Patty pan squash (3, cut into 1-inch pieces) – The star of the dish, famous for its sweet flavor; zucchini is a great substitute if needed.
- Lemon zest (2 teaspoons) – This bright addition elevates the flavor, so don’t skip it for juice alone!
- Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon) – Just the right kick to balance sweetness; adjust to your spice preference or use black pepper for mildness.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (¼ cup) – Adds richness; for a vegan twist, leave it out and mix in a pinch of salt for flavor.
Enjoy whipping up this vibrant side that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Sautéed Patty Pan Squash
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Heat the oil: In a large skillet, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and warm it over medium heat. This will provide a great base for your sauté.
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Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it—we just want it to start turning golden.
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Cook the squash: Toss in the diced patty pan squash and stir well to coat it in the garlicky oil. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and lightly browned.
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Add zest and spice: Halfway through cooking, sprinkle in the lemon zest and red pepper flakes for a bright kick. Stir everything together for an even distribution of flavor.
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Incorporate cheese: Just before removing the skillet from the heat, add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well combined. This adds a creamy richness to the dish!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sautéed Patty Pan Squash Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—your taste buds will thank you!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for a burst of aroma and flavor just before serving.
With the addition of herbs, you elevate your dish from simple to something sensational. -
Cheese Alternatives: Switch out parmesan for feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist that adds complexity.
The rich flavors of these cheeses provide an exciting contrast, making each bite uniquely delightful. -
Zucchini Swap: Substitute patty pan squash with zucchini if that’s what you have at hand.
Zucchini’s mild flavor maintains the essence of the dish while introducing a familiar texture. -
Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy element that perfectly complements the soft squash.
This not only enhances the texture but adds a delightful nuttiness that makes each bite special. -
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a richness that elevates the dish.
The creamy element melds beautifully with the flavors, creating a comforting experience. -
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños during cooking to turn up the heat.
This fiery twist transforms the dish into a bold statement, leaving spice enthusiasts exhilarated. -
Citrus Zing: Replace lemon zest with lime or orange zest for a refreshing shift in flavor profile.
Bright citrus notes weave through the dish, offering a unique, zesty surprise that dances on your palate. -
Sweetness Factor: Add a dash of honey or maple syrup for a sweet contrast to the savory notes.
The subtle sweetness harmonizes with the squash, creating a luscious balance that enchants your taste buds.
Make Ahead Options
These Sautéed Patty Pan Squash are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the patty pan squash and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix lemon zest and red pepper flakes ahead of time; however, it’s best to add the parmesan cheese just before serving to retain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy this quick side dish, simply sauté the garlic in olive oil, add the squash, and finish with your pre-mixed seasonings. This allows you to whip up a delicious and vibrant dish with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Sautéed Patty Pan Squash
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your sautéed patty pan squash fresh and ready to enjoy later!
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sautéed squash in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
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Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of olive oil to restore moisture and flavor.
What to Serve with Sautéed Patty Pan Squash?
To create a delightful meal, consider these pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of sautéed patty pan squash.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken, with its smoky flavors, contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the squash. Each bite enhances the dish’s fresh essence.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad with quinoa, cucumbers, and herbs adds an airy texture that balances the sautéed squash’s richness. The combination is colorful and satisfying!
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Lemon Herb Rice: Light, zesty rice infused with fresh herbs harmonizes perfectly with the citrus notes of the squash, creating a cohesive meal that feels effortlessly elegant.
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Pasta Primavera: Toss some sautéed vegetables with spaghetti for a hearty meal. The simple, buttery pasta allows the patty pan squash to shine as the centerpiece.
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Roasted Salmon: The rich, flaky fish pairs deliciously with the squash’s sweet flavor, while fresh herbs on the salmon bring an extra layer of taste.
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Crispy Chickpeas: A sprinkle of seasoned roasted chickpeas adds a delightful crunch and protein boost, making this side dish even more satisfying and hearty.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens mixed with a light vinaigrette lift the meal’s overall profile. The freshness of the salad contrasts nicely with the sautéed squash.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish’s flavors, making the meal feel refreshing and celebratory.
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Lemon Sorbet: Light and tart, this refreshing dessert cleanses the palate after enjoying your lovely sautéed patty pan squash, leaving everyone smiling and satisfied!
Tips for the Best Sautéed Patty Pan Squash
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Don’t Overcook: Ensure you avoid overcooking the squash; it should be crisp-tender to maintain its lovely texture.
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Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic instead of jarred. It enhances the aroma and taste of your sautéed patty pan squash.
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Perfect Zest: Always use lemon zest rather than juice. The zest adds vibrant freshness and aroma that juice alone can’t provide.
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Grate It Fresh: Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts better and offers richer flavor compared to pre-grated options, enhancing the final dish.
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Adjust Spice Level: Tailor the red pepper flakes to your heat preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider omitting them or using black pepper instead.
Sautéed Patty Pan Squash Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select patty pan squash?
When choosing patty pan squash, look for ones that are firm, shiny, and free of dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size and have smooth, unblemished skins. Avoid any squash that appears soft or has large dark spots, as these may indicate overripeness.
How should I store leftovers of sautéed patty pan squash?
Store leftover sautéed patty pan squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. I often find that adding a splash of olive oil while reheating helps retain moisture.
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Can I freeze sautéed patty pan squash?
Absolutely! To freeze sautéed patty pan squash, first let it cool completely. Then, spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the squash to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, just reheat directly from frozen!
What if I overcooked the squash while sautéing?
If you accidentally overcook the squash, it may become mushy. To salvage it, you can try transforming it into a puree or soup by blending it with vegetable broth. Adding spices or herbs can enhance the flavor. For future attempts, keep an eye on the cooking time and aim for tender yet crisp results.
Is sautéed patty pan squash safe for my pets?
While patty pan squash is generally safe for pets in small amounts, it’s essential to avoid any added ingredients like garlic or parmesan since those can be harmful to animals. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Sautéed Patty Pan Squash: Quick, Flavorful Summer Side Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and warm it over medium heat.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the squash: Toss in the diced patty pan squash and stir well. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until tender.
- Add zest and spice: Sprinkle in the lemon zest and red pepper flakes halfway through cooking.
- Incorporate cheese: Just before removing from heat, add the parmesan and stir until melted.