Summer squash, including varieties like zucchini, yellow squash, and pattypan squash, is versatile and delicious. Here are six creative ways to use summer squash in your cooking:

1. Grilled Summer Squash

Grilling summer squash brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delightful smoky flavor.

• Preparation: Slice the squash into thick rounds or lengthwise strips.

• Seasoning: Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (such as rosemary or thyme).

• Grilling: Grill on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until tender and grill marks appear.

2. Stuffed Summer Squash

Stuffed squash makes for an impressive and satisfying dish.

• Preparation: Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a hollow center.

• Filling: Stuff with a mixture of cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Top with cheese if desired.

• Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.

3. Summer Squash Noodles (Zoodles)

Use summer squash as a low-carb alternative to pasta by making "zoodles."

• Preparation: Use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to create noodle-like strips from the squash.

• Cooking: Lightly sauté the zoodles in olive oil for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Be careful not to overcook them to avoid sogginess.

• Serving: Toss with your favorite pasta sauce, such as marinara, pesto, or a simple garlic and olive oil sauce.

4. Steamed Summer Squash

If you are in a hurry, here is an easy and healthy way to prepare summer squash.

• Preparation: Rise any dirt off the summer squash and pat dry. Slice the summer squash in 1/4 inch thick slices and place in a microwave bowl or glass baking dish.

• Cook: Place the sliced summer squash in a microwave for about 3 minutes. Remove when it is crisp tender.

• Season: Season the summer squash with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon, some herbs and aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes). Enjoy.

5. Summer Squash Soup

A light and flavorful summer squash soup is perfect for warm weather.

• Preparation: Dice the squash, along with other vegetables like onions, garlic, and carrots.

• Cooking: Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add the diced squash and carrots, and cook for a few minutes. Add vegetable broth and simmer until the vegetables are tender.

• Blending: Puree the soup with an immersion blender until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like basil or dill.

• Serving: Serve hot or chilled, garnished with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Summer Squash Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry showcases the versatility of summer squash.

• Preparation: Slice the squash into thin rounds or half-moons.

• Cooking: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for a minute. Add the sliced squash and other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots.

• Sauce: Stir in a sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and a splash of rice vinegar. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

• Serving: Serve over rice or noodles, topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

These recipes highlight the versatility of summer squash and can help you make the most of this nutritious and abundant vegetable. Enjoy experimenting with different preparations and flavors!