Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Sautéed Patty Pan Squash, which makes a great summer side dish.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces patty pan squash, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash:
- Cut the patty pan squash into similar-sized pieces, aiming for about 1-inch chunks.
- Sauté the Squash:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the squash, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Sauté for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender but still has a nice bite.
- Add Flavorings:
- Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice, grated garlic, and chopped parsley.
- Serve:
- Transfer the sautéed squash to a serving dish. Top with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.
What are Patty Pan Health Benefits
Patty pan squash offers numerous health benefits. It is low in calories, making it ideal for weight management. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports immune function, skin health, and vision. High in fiber, it promotes digestion and gut health.
With its high water content, patty pan squash helps maintain hydration levels. Additionally, its antioxidants combat oxidative stress. Including patty pan squash in meals is versatile and enhances overall health and wellness through various cooking methods like sautéing, roasting, or stuffing.
Do You Remove The Seeds?
It’s advisable to remove the seeds from larger patty pan squash before cooking. When preparing medium to large-sized patty pan squash, it’s typical to halve them and scoop out the seeds using a spoon.
This step enhances the texture and flavor of your dish, as larger squash seeds can be tougher. Smaller patty pan squash generally have smaller seeds that can be cooked whole or sliced without needing to be removed.
