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- 4 medium summer squash (zucchini or yellow squash) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme) - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley for garnish You can use non-dairy butter if you want a dairy-free option. Look for brands that mimic the taste and texture of regular butter. For herbs, feel free to swap thyme with oregano or basil. These can add a new flavor twist. You can also use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic if needed. You will need a large skillet for cooking the squash. A sharp knife and a cutting board help you slice the squash easily. A spatula is great for stirring and flipping. For a perfect cook, have a measuring spoon handy for the seasonings. How to wash and slice summer squash Start by washing the summer squash under cool water. This removes dirt and any residues. After washing, slice the squash into half-moons that are about ¼ inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly and makes a lovely presentation. Preparing garlic and herbs Next, take 4 cloves of garlic and mince them finely. This step adds a robust flavor to your dish. If you have fresh thyme, pluck the leaves from the stems. You will need about 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves. If you use dried thyme, just ½ teaspoon will do. Melting butter and sautéing garlic In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it starts bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it smells amazing, but be careful not to let it brown. This step infuses the butter with garlic flavor. Cooking summer squash to perfection Now, add the sliced summer squash to the skillet. Stir them gently to coat with the garlic butter. Then, season with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook the squash for about 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then. You want them tender but still bright in color. Adding seasonings and herb garnish Once the squash is tender, sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves over them. Toss gently to mix everything for another minute. This step brings all the flavors together beautifully. Serving suggestions for presentation To serve, place the garlic butter summer squash in a large serving bowl. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet on top. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with grilled meats or stands alone as a light vegetarian meal. Enjoy your delicious creation! To make your garlic butter summer squash even better, try adding more herbs or spices. Fresh basil or oregano pairs well with the squash. You can also mix in some Italian seasoning for a warm touch. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick. When cooking squash, you can choose to sauté or grill. Sautéing gives a soft texture and a rich flavor. For grilling, cut the squash into thicker slices. This helps it hold its shape and adds a lovely char. Whichever method you choose, make sure the skillet or grill is hot before adding the squash. This helps create a nice sear. Watch the cooking time closely. Summer squash cooks fast, usually in about 5-7 minutes. You want it tender but still bright in color. To check if it’s done, poke a piece with a fork. It should be easy to pierce but not mushy. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking! {{image_2}} You can cook garlic butter summer squash in different ways. Each method brings out unique flavors. - Grilling garlic butter summer squash: Grilling adds a smoky touch. Preheat your grill to medium-high. Brush the squash with garlic butter. Place the slices on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. Look for nice grill marks and a soft texture. This method enhances the natural sweetness of the squash. - Roasting for a caramelized flavor: Roasting brings out deep, sweet flavors. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sliced squash with garlic butter and spices. Spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway. This creates a lovely caramelized surface. Mixing in new flavors can make this dish even better. Here are some ideas: - Adding cheeses or nuts: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta on top before serving. This adds creaminess. For crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts. - Incorporating other vegetables: You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions. Slice them thin and cook them with the squash. This adds more color and taste to your dish. Garlic butter summer squash pairs well with many meals. Here are some tasty ideas: - Ideal main courses to complement the dish: Serve this squash with grilled chicken or fish. It also goes great with a hearty steak. - Creative serving ideas: Try it as a topping for pasta or a bed for roasted meats. You can also mix it into a grain bowl for a healthy meal. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. Enjoy experimenting with different methods and flavors! To keep your garlic butter summer squash tasty, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. It is best to use the squash within three days. If you want to freeze it, let the squash cool first. Then, place it in freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This way, it stays fresh for up to three months. When warming up leftovers, I suggest using a skillet. Heat it on low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or a bit of butter to keep the squash moist. Stir gently until it’s warm. You can also use the microwave. Place the squash in a bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking often to not overcook. This helps maintain the texture and flavor. In the fridge, garlic butter summer squash lasts about three days. You can freeze it for up to three months. Watch for signs of spoilage. If the squash looks slimy or smells off, it’s best to throw it away. Freshness is key for enjoying this dish! You can enhance garlic butter summer squash easily. Here are some common additions: - Cheese: Sprinkle Parmesan or feta on top for a salty kick. - Nuts: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch. - Herbs: Mix in fresh basil or oregano for a fresh taste. - Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens the dish. - Chili Flakes: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes. These boosts bring new life and depth to the squash. Yes, you can use frozen summer squash, but it will change the texture. Here are some tips: - Thaw First: Let the squash thaw before cooking. - Drain Excess Water: Squeeze out moisture to avoid sogginess. - Adjust Cooking Time: Frozen squash may need a few extra minutes to cook. Keep in mind that fresh squash has a firmer texture and better flavor. Garlic butter summer squash works well for meal prep. Here’s how: - Storage: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. - Reheating: Heat in a skillet or microwave until warm. - Pairing: It complements grilled meats or grains, making it a versatile side. Meal prep helps you enjoy this dish throughout the week. For the full recipe, check out the previous sections. This blog post covered how to make garlic butter summer squash with simple steps. You learned about ingredients, cooking methods, and tips to enhance flavor. You can easily substitute ingredients and try different cooking styles. I shared ways to store leftovers and answered common questions. With this information, you're ready to create a tasty dish that suits your taste. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this squash shine on your table!

Garlic Butter Summer Squash

Savor the flavors of summer with this Garlic Butter Summer Squash Delight! This quick and easy recipe celebrates fresh summer squash, perfectly sautéed with garlic, thyme, and a hint of spice. In just 15 minutes, create a vibrant and delicious dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or stands out on its own as a vegetarian treat. Click through for the full recipe and elevate your summer meals today!
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Ingredients
  

4 medium summer squash (zucchini or yellow squash), sliced into half-moons

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Begin by washing the summer squash under cool water, then slice them into half-moons about ¼ inch thick.

    In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

      Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

        Add the sliced summer squash to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the garlic butter.

          Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook the squash for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender but still vibrant in color.

            Once cooked, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the squash, tossing gently to combine everything for another minute.

              Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

                Prep Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the garlic butter summer squash in a large serving bowl, drizzled with any remaining garlic butter from the pan, and garnish with extra parsley for a color pop. This dish makes a beautiful side for grilled meats or as a light vegetarian main dish.