Easy Stovetop Yellow Squash Recipes: Perfect Side Dish

Right, let's talk about yellow squash, shall we? It's one of those unassuming summer vegetables that can really shine with the right treatment. You can roast it, grill it, sauté it, even throw it in a smoothie. But for me, a simple, stovetop yellow squash side dish is the ultimate comfort food.

Why I Love Stovetop Yellow Squash

It's all about the versatility, really. You can dress it up or down depending on the occasion. Need a quick and easy side for a weeknight dinner? Stovetop yellow squash is your go-to. Want something a bit fancier for a special occasion? No problem, just add some herbs and spices.

And the flavour! Yellow squash has a mild sweetness that works beautifully with a range of flavours. You can keep it simple with just a bit of salt and pepper, or get adventurous with garlic, ginger, or even a touch of chilli. It's like a blank canvas just waiting for your culinary touch!

A Few Things To Keep In Mind Before You Get Started

Now, before we jump into the recipes, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:

1. Choose the Right Squash: For stovetop cooking, I prefer the smaller, more tender yellow squash. The larger varieties can be a bit tougher and might take a bit longer to cook. Just a little tip from experience, trust me on this one!
2. Don't Overcook It: Yellow squash can go from perfectly tender to mushy in a flash. Keep a close eye on it and don't be afraid to pull it off the heat a little early. You can always add a minute or two back on if needed. You don't want it turning into mushy, do you? No one wants mushy squash!
3. Seasoning is Key: Don't be shy with the seasonings! Yellow squash is a blank canvas just waiting for your culinary touch. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and even a squeeze of lemon juice. It's amazing how much flavour you can bring out with just a few simple ingredients.

(Part 1) Simple Stovetop Yellow Squash: The Basics

Alright, let's start with the basics. This recipe is so easy, it's almost cheating. It's perfect for when you need something quick and simple, but still want a delicious and healthy side dish.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1/2 teaspoon salt
4. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the yellow squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips

• For a bit more flavour, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the skillet with the olive oil. A little bit goes a long way, but it adds a nice depth of flavour.
• If you're feeling fancy, toss in a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, at the end of cooking. Fresh herbs are always a good idea.

(Part 2) Yellow Squash with Garlic and Herbs: A Flavourful Twist

This recipe adds a touch of garlic and herbs for a burst of flavour. It's a great way to add a little something extra to your side dish.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
4. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add the yellow squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in the parsley, salt, and pepper.

Tips

• If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried parsley. Just be sure to adjust the amount because dried herbs are much more concentrated.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic. It adds a bit of heat without being overwhelming.

(Part 3) Yellow Squash with Lemon and Dill: A Fresh and Bright Side

A bit of citrus and dill makes this recipe a fresh and bright side dish. It's perfect for pairing with grilled fish or chicken.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
4. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the yellow squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Stir in the dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Tips

• For a more intense lemon flavour, add a pinch of lemon zest to the skillet with the olive oil. Lemon zest adds a lovely fragrance and a bit of extra citrus flavour.
• If you don't have fresh dill, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried dill. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you might need to adjust the amount.

(Part 4) Yellow Squash with Ginger and Soy Sauce: A Touch of Asian-Inspired Flavour

A touch of Asian-inspired flavour takes this recipe to the next level. It's a great way to add a bit of global flair to your meal.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
4. 1 tablespoon soy sauce
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ginger and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add the yellow squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper.

Tips

• If you don't have fresh ginger, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Just make sure to adjust the amount because ground ginger is much more concentrated.
• For a sweeter flavour, add a teaspoon of brown sugar to the skillet with the soy sauce. It balances out the salty flavour of the soy sauce and adds a touch of sweetness.

(Part 5) Yellow Squash with Tomatoes and Basil: A Summery Delight

A summery combination of tomatoes and basil adds a burst of fresh flavour. It's perfect for a light and refreshing meal.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
4. 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the yellow squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Stir in the tomatoes and basil, salt, and pepper.

Tips

• For a sweeter flavour, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the skillet with the tomatoes. It adds a touch of sweetness that really complements the tomatoes and basil.
• If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Just be sure to adjust the amount because dried basil is much more concentrated.

(Part 6) Yellow Squash with Chili Flakes: A Touch of Heat

A touch of heat adds a nice kick to this simple side dish. It's perfect for when you want a little something extra to spice up your meal.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1/4 teaspoon salt
4. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
5. 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the yellow squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Tips

• For a milder heat, add just a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet. Start small and add more if you want it spicier.
• If you prefer a sweeter flavour, add a teaspoon of brown sugar to the skillet with the red pepper flakes. It balances out the heat and adds a bit of sweetness.

(Part 7) Yellow Squash with Parmesan and Herbs: An Indulgent Treat

This recipe is a bit more indulgent, but oh-so-delicious. It's perfect for when you want to add a touch of luxury to your meal.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4. 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or oregano)
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the yellow squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper.

Tips

• For a more intense flavour, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the skillet with the olive oil. It adds a nice depth of flavour to the dish.
• If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried herbs. Just be sure to adjust the amount because dried herbs are much more concentrated.

(Part 8) Yellow Squash with Chickpeas and Curry Powder: A Global Flair

This recipe adds a bit of global flair with chickpeas and curry powder. It's a great way to add a bit of spice and protein to your side dish.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. 1 teaspoon curry powder
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the curry powder and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add the yellow squash and chickpeas and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

Tips

• For a more intense curry flavour, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the skillet with the curry powder. It adds a bit of heat without being overwhelming.
• If you prefer a milder flavour, use a milder curry powder or reduce the amount used. You can also add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance out the spice.

(Part 9) Yellow Squash with Bacon and Onions: A Smoky and Rich Treat

This recipe adds a bit of smokiness and richness with bacon and onions. It's perfect for when you want a more indulgent side dish.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
3. 1/2 cup chopped onion
4. 2 tablespoons olive oil
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
3. Add the yellow squash and bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

Tips

• For a more intense bacon flavour, add a tablespoon of bacon grease to the skillet with the onion. It adds a lovely smoky flavour to the dish.
• If you prefer a sweeter flavour, add a teaspoon of brown sugar to the skillet with the onion. It balances out the salty flavour of the bacon and adds a touch of sweetness.

(Part 10) Yellow Squash with Zucchini and Herbs: A Colourful and Flavourful Side Dish

Why limit yourself to just yellow squash? Combine it with zucchini for a colourful and flavourful side dish. It's a great way to get a double dose of summer vegetables.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound yellow squash, sliced
2. 1 pound zucchini, sliced
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or dill)
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the yellow squash and zucchini and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Stir in the herbs, salt, and pepper.

Tips

• For a more intense flavour, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the skillet with the olive oil. It adds a nice depth of flavour to the dish.
• If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried herbs. Just be sure to adjust the amount because dried herbs are much more concentrated.

(Part 11) Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your delicious squash

Now, let's talk about how to best enjoy these delicious side dishes:

• Serve warm. They're best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the pan. That's when the flavours are at their peak!
• Pair them with any meal. They work wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or pork. They're also a great addition to vegetarian meals like lentil soup or a hearty salad. The possibilities are endless!
• Get creative with toppings. Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra flavour. It's like a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
• Store leftovers. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're great for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

(Part 12) Yellow Squash Nutrition: A Healthy and Delicious Treat

Now, you're probably thinking, "This all sounds great, but is yellow squash actually good for me?" Absolutely! It's packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Here's a quick rundown of what you get in a cup of cooked yellow squash:

Plus, yellow squash is a good source of folate, manganese, and vitamin B6. It's also low in calories and fat. So, not only is it delicious, it's good for you too!

(Part 13) FAQs: Answering Your Yellow Squash Questions

1. Can I substitute zucchini for yellow squash?

Absolutely! Zucchini and yellow squash are very similar in flavour and texture. You can use one in place of the other in any of the recipes above. They're both great choices!

2. How do I know when the yellow squash is cooked?

The yellow squash will be tender and slightly translucent when it's cooked. You can also test it with a fork. If it pierces easily, it's done. No need to overcook it!

3. Can I freeze yellow squash?

Yes, you can freeze yellow squash. To freeze, blanch the sliced squash in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and cool completely before placing in a freezer-safe bag. This is a great way to preserve your summer squash and enjoy it throughout the year.

4. What are some other ways to cook yellow squash?

You can also roast, grill, or bake yellow squash. For a simple roasted squash, toss slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Grilling it is also a great option for a smoky flavour.

5. How long does yellow squash last in the fridge?

Uncooked yellow squash can last in the refrigerator for up to a week. Cooked yellow squash can last for up to 3 days. It's best to enjoy it fresh, but it can be stored for a few days if you need to.

I hope this article has inspired you to get creative with your yellow squash! It's such a versatile vegetable that can be used in so many different ways. So go forth and experiment! You might just discover your new favourite summer side dish.