This Easy Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash is a tasty and healthy side dish! Just slice the squash, sprinkle it with parmesan cheese and some spices, then pop it in the oven until it’s golden.
You’ll love how simple it is to make! It’s the perfect way to enjoy colorful veggies, and it always gets a thumbs up at my dinner table. Who knew something so easy could be so good? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key for this dish. If you’re short on fresh, zucchini can be a good substitute. They have a similar texture, and the flavor will still shine through.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds the perfect salty kick! If you need a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives. Both will give you that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is best for richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil or even cooking spray for a lighter coat on the squash.
Italian Seasoning: You can mix your own blend using dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. If you like it spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes!
How Do I Make Sure My Squash is Perfectly Tender?
The key to perfectly baked squash is the slice thickness. Aim for 1/4-inch rounds; this helps them cook evenly and get tender without becoming mushy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a sharp knife for slicing to ensure clean cuts. A dull knife not only makes it harder but can be unsafe!
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking dish. This allows even cooking and helps prevent steaming.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Check them at 15 minutes, and if they’re not done, give them a few more minutes!
Easy Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium yellow squash
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 to 20 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and simple dish that can easily be added to your meal rotation!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you have a baking dish handy, lightly grease it with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for an easy cleanup later.
2. Slice the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash thoroughly under cool water. Then, using a sharp knife, slice each squash into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to keep them as even as possible for uniform cooking!
3. Coat the Squash:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the squash slices with the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently until the squash is nicely coated with all the seasonings.
4. Arrange on Baking Dish:
Once coated, carefully arrange the squash slices in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. This helps them bake evenly and become tender without steaming.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan:
Now, take your grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the arranged squash slices. This cheesy goodness will get golden and crispy while baking!
6. Bake:
Pop the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the squash is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve warm as a delightful side dish!
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this easy, cheesy, and tasty baked Parmesan yellow squash. Perfect for family dinners or as a side to any meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Yes, you can definitely use zucchini or a mix of summer squashes instead of yellow squash! They’ll provide a similar texture and flavor, and they bake just as well.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour or gluten products. Just ensure that the ingredients you’re using, particularly any pre-grated cheese, are labeled gluten-free.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quick option.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes. Just make sure they’re sliced similarly in thickness for even cooking. Keep in mind that different veggies may require slight adjustments in baking time.
