White patty pan squash is a charming summer vegetable, easily recognizable by its unique scalloped, UFO-like shape. It’s tender, mildly sweet, and versatile in the kitchen. If you’re wondering how to cook white patty pan squash, you’re in the right place! This article will walk you through several easy and tasty methods to prepare this delightful squash, ensuring it shines on your dinner table.
What Is White Patty Pan Squash?
White patty pan squash is a variety of summer squash that is typically small, tender, and sweet. It has a distinctive flat, round shape with scalloped edges, often likened to a flying saucer or a little hat. This squash is great when harvested young, as its skin is tender and seeds are soft, making it perfect for quick cooking.
Preparing White Patty Pan Squash for Cooking
Before cooking, wash the squash thoroughly under cold water. You can leave the skin on because it softens nicely when cooked. Depending on your recipe or preference, slice the squash into halves, quarters, or rounds. Smaller squash can often be cooked whole or halved, while larger ones benefit from being cut into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Easy Ways to Cook White Patty Pan Squash
1. Sautéed Patty Pan Squash
Sautéing is one of the quickest and most flavorful ways to cook white patty pan squash. Here’s a simple method:
– Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until foaming.
– Add sliced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
– Add the sliced squash and minced garlic, seasoning with lemon pepper or salt and pepper.
– Cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 5-6 minutes.
– Finish with fresh herbs like parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
This method highlights the squash’s natural sweetness and keeps it tender with a slight bite.
2. Roasted Patty Pan Squash
Roasting brings out a deeper, caramelized flavor and a slightly crispy texture:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Wash and slice the squash in halves or quarters.
– Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
– Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
– Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even browning.
– Optional: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs before serving.
Roasted patty pan squash pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or as a hearty addition to salads.
3. Grilled Patty Pan Squash
Grilling adds a smoky flavor and attractive grill marks:
– Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
– Place on a hot grill, cut side down.
– Grill until grill marks appear, then flip and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
– Larger squash (around 4 inches) work best to prevent falling through the grill grates.
– Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs.
4. Air-Fried Patty Pan Squash
For a quick and healthy option, air frying is excellent:
– Season the sliced squash with oil and your favorite spices.
– Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
– Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
– The result is a crispy, tender squash ready to enjoy as a snack or side.
5. Stuffed Patty Pan Squash
For a more substantial dish, try stuffing the squash:
– Hollow out the center of the squash.
– Fill with a mixture of cooked grains, vegetables, cheese, or meat.
– Bake at 375°F (190°C) until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
– This makes a beautiful and satisfying main or side dish.
Tips for Cooking White Patty Pan Squash
– Choose smaller, tender squash for the best texture and flavor.
– Don’t overcook; patty pan squash cooks quickly and should remain tender but not mushy.
– Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, basil, or parsley to complement the squash’s mild flavor.
– Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish.
– Combine with other summer vegetables like zucchini, yellow squash, or green beans for colorful plates.
Serving Suggestions
White patty pan squash is a versatile side that pairs beautifully with:
– Grilled or roasted chicken, pork, or fish
– Pasta dishes with light sauces
– Fresh salads or grain bowls
– As a topping for pizzas or flatbreads
Its mild flavor and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser in many meals.
White patty pan squash is easy to prepare and delicious in many forms, from sautéed and roasted to grilled or air-fried. Give these methods a try to enjoy this charming vegetable at its best!