Quick, Healthy, and Delicious Summer Vegetable Recipe
Introduction: What Is Patty Pan Squash?
If you’ve ever stumbled upon a quirky, scalloped-edge squash at your local farmer’s market or garden patch and wondered how to cook it, you’re not alone. That adorable flying saucer-shaped vegetable is called patty pan squash (also known as scallop squash), and it’s one of summer’s most underrated stars.
Available in colors ranging from creamy white to sunshine yellow and vibrant green, patty pan squash is not only pretty—it’s also low in calories, high in fiber, and extremely versatile in the kitchen. Whether you’re roasting it, stuffing it, or sautéing it, one of the best and fastest ways to prepare this summer vegetable is on the grill.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to grill patty pan squash in just 10 minutes, plus offer tips on preserving it, recipe variations, nutritional benefits, and creative ways to enjoy it year-round.
Why Grill Patty Pan Squash?
Grilling is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to bring out the natural sweetness of vegetables. For patty pan squash, which has a mild and tender texture, grilling adds depth of flavor with:
- Smoky charred edges
- A soft yet structured bite
- A savory caramelization effect
- No need for peeling
Unlike other squashes with thicker skin, patty pan’s outer layer becomes beautifully tender when cooked. That makes it ideal for quick-cook methods like grilling or roasting.
Whether you’re serving up a backyard BBQ, meal-prepping veggies for the week, or crafting a colorful veggie bowl, grilled patty pan squash is an easy addition to your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to grill perfect patty pan squash in 10 minutes:
Main Ingredients:
- 4–6 medium patty pan squash (white, yellow, or green)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning
Optional Garnishes:
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice or balsamic glaze
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese
- Chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or mint
- Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
🌿 Pro Tip: Use a flavored olive oil like garlic- or basil-infused for extra flavor with no extra effort.
Step-by-Step: How to Grill Patty Pan Squash in 10 Minutes
Step 1: Wash and Cut the Squash
Rinse the squash under cool water and pat dry. You don’t need to peel the skin—it softens beautifully on the grill. Trim the stem and blossom ends, then:
- Slice large squash into ½-inch thick rounds
- Halve or quarter small squash (1–2 inches in diameter)
The key to even grilling is uniformity in size. Smaller pieces cook faster, while thicker cuts get deeper grill marks.
Step 2: Season the Squash
Place the cut squash in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss with:
- Minced garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh or dried herbs
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to marinate slightly. This step enhances flavor and helps form a caramelized crust during grilling.
Step 3: Heat the Grill
Preheat your grill (gas or charcoal) to medium-high heat, approximately 375°F–400°F (190–200°C).
If using a grill basket, preheat it directly on the grates. Otherwise, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Squash
Place the seasoned squash slices or wedges directly on the grill grates or into your grill basket.
- Grill for 4–5 minutes on the first side until golden brown with visible grill marks.
- Flip, then grill another 3–4 minutes on the second side.
The squash is done when it’s fork-tender but still holds its shape.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer grilled squash to a platter. While hot, drizzle with:
- Fresh lemon juice
- Balsamic reduction
- A handful of herbs
- Crumbled cheese, if desired
Serve warm as a side dish, mix into grain bowls, or chill and serve over salad for a refreshing summer plate.
Bonus: Easy Variations for Grilled Patty Pan Squash
🔥 Spicy Garlic Butter Squash
Toss hot squash with melted butter, minced garlic, and red chili flakes.
🍋 Lemon Herb Squash Skewers
Thread squash with bell peppers and onions. Marinate in lemon juice, oregano, and olive oil before grilling.
🧀 Cheesy Roasted Patty Pan
Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan in the final minute of grilling for a melted, gooey twist.
🥗 Cold Grilled Squash Salad
Cool the grilled squash and toss it with arugula, cherry tomatoes, feta, and a lemon vinaigrette.
More Ways to Cook Patty Pan Squash
While grilling is perfect for quick meals, here are a few other methods for delicious patty pan squash:
1. Roasted Patty Pan Squash with Garlic (Oven Method)
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Slice squash and toss with oil, garlic, salt, and pepper
- Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway
2. Sautéed in a Skillet
Use a heavy-bottomed pan and sauté with butter or oil over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes. Add garlic, shallots, or onions for more flavor.
3. Stuffed Patty Pan Squash
For large squash, scoop out the center and stuff with a mix of quinoa, mushrooms, breadcrumbs, or sausage. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until tender.
How to Preserve Patty Pan Squash
Don’t let your garden bounty go to waste! Here’s how to store and preserve patty pan squash for later:
1. Freezing
- Wash and cut into slices
- Blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes
- Cool in ice bath, drain, and pat dry
- Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 8 months
2. Pickling
Quick-pickle patty pan squash in vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, garlic, and dill. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
3. Canning
Use pressure canning methods for safe long-term storage—great for seasoned squash slices in oil and vinegar blends.
Nutritional Benefits of Patty Pan Squash
Patty pan squash isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with nutrition. Each serving provides:
- Low Calories (about 18 calories per 100g)
- High Fiber – supports digestion
- Rich in Vitamin C – supports immunity and skin health
- Good Source of Potassium – for heart and muscle function
- Antioxidants – like beta-carotene for cellular repair
It’s an ideal vegetable for those on:
- Low-carb diets
- Keto or paleo diets
- Weight-loss plans
- Anti-inflammatory diets
Perfect Pairings: What Goes with Grilled Patty Pan Squash?
Patty pan squash is a team player on any plate. Here are perfect companions:
- Grilled Chicken or Salmon – for a balanced protein-veggie plate
- Lamb Kofta or Falafel – for a Mediterranean spread
- Lemon Rice or Quinoa – a bright, filling base
- Pasta or Orzo Salad – toss in grilled squash for texture
- Eggs – serve over frittatas or scrambled eggs for brunch
Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Patty Pan Squash Every Time
- Choose uniform, firm squash without blemishes.
- Cut pieces evenly for even cooking.
- Use fresh garlic and herbs for bold flavor.
- Don’t overcook—7–9 minutes total is plenty.
- Finish with an acidic element like lemon or vinegar to brighten the flavors.
- For extra char, don’t move the squash too often on the grill.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I grill patty pan squash whole?
Yes, small squash (under 2 inches) can be grilled whole. Toss in oil and pierce once with a fork to let steam escape. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning often.
❓ Is patty pan squash the same as zucchini?
They’re both summer squashes, but patty pan has a firmer texture and more defined shape. Their flavor is similarly mild and buttery.
❓ What do white patty pan squash taste like?
White varieties are slightly creamier in flavor and texture. They’re perfect for grilling and pair well with bold spices or acidic sauces.
Conclusion: A Simple Fancy Dish in Minutes
If you’ve been looking for an easy, flavorful way to make the most of summer squash, grilled patty pan squash is the answer. With only 10 minutes of cook time and endless flavor possibilities, it’s the kind of healthy, low-effort dish you’ll return to again and again.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, grilling out, or simply looking for new ways to use garden veggies, this recipe is a winner in every way.
