Ways to Use Summer Squash
Summer squash, such as pattypan, crookneck or zucchini, are different from winter squash because they should be picked before they are fully ripe. The seeds will be small, and the skin is thin and edible. These squash tend to be abundant in the garden, so cook them in a variety of ways so you use them up without getting tired of them. Does this Spark an idea?
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Baking
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Summer squash can be used in baking because it is relatively plain in flavor. It adds moisture to bread and cakes without adding a lot of flavor, so the other spices or flavorings you use shine through. The squash will add moisture to baked goods so you can reduce the fat you use. Add zucchini to chocolate cake, or crookneck to a spiced quick bread.
Main Dishes
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Summer squash is wonderful stuffed with cheese and bacon. Because it doesn't add much flavor to dishes, you can put it in your favorite recipes so you lower the calorie count and add nutrition without anyone noticing. Consider adding it to pasta with vegetables, chili or quesadillas. You can also make summer squash the star of the meal by making a squash casserole with a creamy cheese sauce and a variety of mild and hot peppers.
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Side Dishes
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The simplest way to prepare summer squash is to sauté it and serve it with butter, salt and pepper. For an added dimension, grill the squash so you get a smoky flavor that will complement whatever meat you are grilling. Or bread and deep-fry the squash and serve it with a marinara sauce for dipping.
Preserving
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Preserving summer squash is an option if you have so much that you can't get rid of it. However, preserving methods like freezing and pickling will cause the squash to be mushy and lose some of its flavor. If you're freezing squash to use for baking, in quick breads and cakes, it can be a good solution. Otherwise, the best option is to give it away to family and friends so others can enjoy the fresh crop while it lasts.
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References
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