How to Smoke Summer Squash

Summer squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini.

Summer squash are a little like mini zucchinis --- they can be cooked in the same way and paired with similar ingredients, although they have a slightly nuttier taste. They come in different colors and shapes, from flattened saucer-shaped squash to bright yellow curved varieties. If you're bored of fried or roasted summer squash, try smoking it for a different flavor. Smoking squash is simple (as long as you keep an eye on it if you're using a barbecue) and can add an interesting twist to your tried and tested recipes.

Things You'll Need

• Summer squash
• Sharp knife
• Foil
• Ingredients for marinade (olive oil, lemon juice, seasoning)
• Wood chips
• Wine, beer or apple juice for soaking the wood chips

Instructions

Using a Smoker

1. Slice the summer squash thinly.

2. Marinade for a few hours, or alternatively sprinkle with herbs, salt and pepper to taste.

3. Wrap in foil and pierce a few small holes to allow the smoke to penetrate.

4. Place the squash in the smoker for one hour at 220 degrees.

Using a Barbecue

1. Soak wood chips in water and if you like, add wine, beer or apple juice for flavor. Leave to soak for one hour.

2. Fire up the barbecue and place wood chips on the fire. Wait for the fire to die down.

3. Slice the summer squash thinly in the meantime and cover in the marinade of your choice. Alternatively sprinkle with herbs, salt and pepper as desired.

4. Wrap the squash in foil, piercing a few times to allow the smoke to penetrate through the holes.

5. Place the squash on the racks over the smoke and leave for one hour. Stay nearby so that you can check on it from time to time to ensure the flame hasn't gone out or gotten too high.

Tips & Warnings

• Marinading your squash in plenty of olive oil will prevent it from drying out.

• The smokiness of the squash comes from the wood chips, therefore buy good quality wood chips and choose a flavor you like.

• Always use a smoker outdoors to avoid filling your home with harmful smoke

References

• Dad Gum That's Good: Smoked Summer Vegetables
• Barbecue Smoker Recipes: How to Grill
• Real Seeds: Courgettes