If you love summer squash, this quick patty pan squash recipe is going to be your new favorite during the summer months. Just like zucchini that you can cook many different ways (you can roast zucchini, saute zucchini, or even grill it), there are several simple ways to prepare pattypans. I’ll show you how to cook patty pan squash in four different ways, so you can serve it with just about any meal and use your favorite cooking method.
What Is Patty Pan Squash?
Also known as pattypan squash or scallop squash, this summer veggie is a flying saucer shaped squash with edible skin and seeds that you can often find in farmers markets, especially during its peak harvest season in July and August. It tastes a lot like zucchini, but a bit sweeter, and pairs well with a variety of fresh herbs, sauces, or seasonings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This section explains how to choose the best ingredients for cooking patty pan squash (no matter what method you choose), what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card below.
Patty Pan Squash – Look for small to medium squash, about 2-4 inches in diameter, for the best flavor and texture. They can grow up to 7 inches across, but the larger ones are more tough, less sweet, and can even taste a little like potatoes. If you’ll be grilling it, opt for squash toward the larger side of the optimal range (about 4 inches across), so that it doesn’t fall through the grates.Olive Oil – I use extra virgin olive oil, but any neutral oil works. Avocado oil is a great option.Salt & Pepper – For easy flavor. I use sea salt, but kosher salt works as well.Optional Seasonings – Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes.
How To Cut Patty Pans
You can cook the squash whole, but slicing it ensures that you get uniform pieces that cook at the same rate and you get more surface area for browning. To cut the squash simply:
Cut off the stem ends.Slice smaller patty pans in half, or larger ones into quarters or wedges.
How To Cook Patty Pan Squash In The Oven
How To Saute Patty Pan Squash On The Stove
How To Grill Patty Pan Squash
How To Cook Patty Pan Squash In The Air Fryer
How Long To Cook Patty Pan Squash?
Your squash cook time will depend on the cooking method:
Oven Roasted: 15-20 minutesSauteed: 3-5 minutes per sideGrill: 3-4 minutes per sideAir Fryer: 10-12 minutes
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for 3-5 days.Reheat: Reheat in a warm skillet, in the microwave, or in the oven at 350 degrees F.Freeze: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
What To Serve With Patty Pan Squash Recipes
This squash tastes delicious with so many meals!
Grilled Meats – Serve up squash with grilled shrimp skewers, grilled bruschetta chicken, or juicy burgers.Air Fryer Proteins – Make air fryer chicken legs, air fryer lamb chops, or air fryer pork chops to serve with squash.Oven-Baked Mains – Squash pairs well with oven baked chicken thighs, cheesy bacon ranch chicken, or sirloin steak in the oven.Pan Seared Dishes – Try pan seared halibut, sun-dried tomato chicken, or Mediterranean chicken with this squash.
More Summer Squash Recipes
Veggies taste so fresh in the summer! Once you master this squash, try these dishes next: Share your recipe picture by tagging @wholesomeyum and hashtag it #wholesomeyum on Instagram, or in our Facebook support group, too – I’d love to see it!
