Baked Parmesan Squash
The first time I made Baked Parmesan Squash, I didn’t expect it to become a staple in our household. As summer rolled around, the garden overflowed with fresh squash, and I was on a mission to find a way to enjoy it. One evening, as I rummaged through my pantry, I spotted a block of parmesan cheese. The thought of combining the two ingredients was irresistible! As the smell of roasting squash filled the kitchen, my family gathered around the table, eager to taste this new dish. With each bite, the savory, cheesy flavor enveloped the tender squash, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special. Fast forward to today, and Baked Parmesan Squash remains our go-to side dish for summer barbecues, family dinners, and even weeknight meals.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
5 mins
20 mins
Easy
150 kcal
6 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12 g
Oven, Grater, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife
What Makes This Baked Parmesan Squash Special
It’s Incredibly Easy to Make
If you’re looking for a low-effort recipe that still impresses, Baked Parmesan Squash fits the bill perfectly. You only need a handful of ingredients and about thirty minutes to get this dish on the table. Seriously, you can whip it up while you’re prepping the main course!
A Healthy and Flavorful Option
One of the things I love about this dish is how *healthy* it is. With fresh zucchini and yellow squash as the main ingredients, you’re adding a good dose of vitamins and minerals to your meal. Plus, roasting them with olive oil and parmesan cheese gives you that satisfying crunch without any guilt.
Perfect for Summer Gatherings
Whenever summer rolls around, I can’t help but think of outdoor gatherings with friends and family. Baked Parmesan Squash is a fantastic side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, and everyone loves the cheesy goodness!
Versatile and Customizable
This recipe is incredibly versatile. While I typically use zucchini and yellow squash, you can experiment with other seasonal vegetables as well. Think about adding bell peppers or eggplant for a delightful twist. The sky’s the limit!
Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved
As a parent, I know how challenging it can be to get kids to eat their vegetables. But Baked Parmesan Squash has been a game-changer in my household. The cheesy topping and crispy texture make it appealing to children, and they often ask for seconds!
What to Buy for Baked Parmesan Squash
When it comes to making Baked Parmesan Squash, the ingredients are straightforward yet essential for creating that perfect flavor profile. Each component plays a vital role, from the fresh squashes that provide the base to the rich parmesan cheese that elevates it all. Choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients will yield the best results!
- 2 medium zucchini squash: These vibrant green squashes are a staple of summer produce, known for their mild flavor and tender texture. When roasted, they become slightly sweet and caramelized.
- 2 medium yellow squash: With a bright yellow hue, these squashes add a splash of color to your dish. Their subtle flavor balances perfectly with the other ingredients.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Essential for roasting, olive oil helps to enhance flavors and achieve that golden, crispy texture.
- ¼ tsp pepper: A touch of pepper adds warmth and depth to the dish, enhancing the natural taste of the squashes.
- ¼ – ½ tsp garlic salt: This blend infuses the dish with a savory, garlicky kick. Adjust according to your preference!
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: The star of the show! Parmesan cheese provides a rich, salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the squashes beautifully.
Preparation Steps for Baked Parmesan Squash
Making Baked Parmesan Squash is a breeze and can be broken down into a few simple steps. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring that every layer of flavor is perfectly captured. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to go!
- Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. This high temperature will help the squashes roast beautifully, giving them that wonderful caramelization.
- Next, take your zucchini and yellow squash and slice them into even rounds. Aim for about half an inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced squashes with the olive oil. Make sure each piece is lightly coated; this will help with roasting.
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup. Spread the squash slices in a single layer—this allows them to roast properly rather than steam.
- Now, it’s time to sprinkle the squashes! Generously add the pepper and garlic salt over the top. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste!
- Finally, top the squash slices with the grated parmesan cheese, making sure to cover them well for that cheesy crust.
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that golden-brown color on top, as it indicates that they’re done.
- Once cooked, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. This resting time helps the cheese set slightly.
- Serve immediately, and watch everyone eagerly dig into their delicious portions of Baked Parmesan Squash!
Things Worth Knowing
- Choosing the Right Squash: Look for firm, unblemished squashes. Avoid any with soft spots to ensure freshness.
- Layering Flavors: For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary with the toppings.
- Roasting Time: The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your slices. Adjust if necessary for perfectly roasted squash.
- Serving Temperature: This dish is best served warm, as the cheese will be melty and delicious right out of the oven.
Pro Tips and Tweaks
As you prepare to make Baked Parmesan Squash, keep in mind these expert tips to enhance your cooking experience and results. These little tweaks can take your dish to the next level!
- Storage: Leftover Baked Parmesan Squash can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freezing: While fresh is best, you can freeze leftovers. Just ensure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While parmesan is a classic choice, try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor twist!
- Making it a Meal: Add cooked quinoa or a grain of your choice to turn Baked Parmesan Squash into a hearty dish.
What Goes Well With This Baked Parmesan Squash
- Grilled Chicken: This dish is the perfect sidekick to juicy grilled chicken, adding a beautiful color and flavor contrast.
- Fish Dishes: Whether it’s salmon or tilapia, the freshness of the squashes complements fish beautifully.
- Perfect for Lunch: Serve Baked Parmesan Squash as a lighter lunch option paired with a refreshing salad.
- Ideal for Picnics: Pack it up for a picnic; it holds well when cooled and is a hit among family and friends.
- Seasonal Serving: As summer fades into fall, this dish transitions beautifully into autumn gatherings, complementing heartier meals.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate any leftovers promptly and enjoy them cold or reheated, as they still retain their flavor.
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of Baked Parmesan Squash lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that perfectly balances fresh flavors with cheesy goodness, making it a favorite for any occasion. So why not give it a try? I guarantee that once you make this dish, it will quickly become a staple on your dinner table!
Baked Parmesan Squash
Equipment
- Oven
- Grater
- Baking Sheet
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini squash
- 2 medium yellow squash
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ¼ - ½ tsp garlic salt
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Cut squash in slices and toss with olive oil. Place on a cookie sheet in a single layer.
- Sprinkle squash with pepper, garlic salt and parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until lightly browned on top.
Notes
- Storage: Leftover Baked Parmesan Squash can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freezing: While fresh is best, you can freeze leftovers. Just ensure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While parmesan is a classic choice, try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor twist!
- Making it a Meal: Add cooked quinoa or a grain of your choice to turn Baked Parmesan Squash into a hearty dish.
