Grilled Summer Squash with Citrusy Dressing

This bright and flavorful grilled summer squash recipe is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or fish. This recipe is given a kick of heat with the addition of jalapeños that pairs perfectly with the tangy citrus dressing. It is quick and easy to make and a great way to use up the summer squash that is plentiful during the season.

INGREDIENTS

• Canola oil for grill grates
• 3 small zucchini (about 1 pound), halved lengthwise
• 3 small yellow squash (about 1 pound), halved lengthwise
• 2 tbsp. olive oil, divided
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp. lemon zest, plus 1/2 a whole lemon
• 1/2 small jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp. pure honey
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Set up the grill for direct cooking and heat to medium-high. 
2. Lightly oil your hot grates with canola oil. Brush the zucchini and squash lightly with olive oil then season them with salt and pepper.
3. Place the zucchini, squash, and half lemon cut sides down. Grill them until just slightly charred and tender about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. After grilling place them on a cutting board and slice them into 2-inch pieces.
5. In a bowl, mix together juice from the grilled lemon, lemon zest, jalapeño, honey, and an extra tablespoon of olive oil.
6. Then season it with salt and pepper to taste. Add the zucchini, squash, scallions, and basil leaves. Give it all a gentle toss until everything is coated evenly.

What to Serve With Summer Squash
Summer squash is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions:

• Grilled Meat or Fish: The light, fresh flavor of summer squash complements the smoky, savory taste of grilled proteins.
• Pasta: Toss sliced or diced summer squash into pasta dishes. It pairs well with both light sauces like olive oil or heavy ones like Alfredo.
• Salads: Raw summer squash can be thinly sliced or spiralized to add crunch and freshness to salads.
• Rice or Quinoa: These grains make a hearty side dish and can absorb any flavors you cook your squash with.
• Roasted Vegetables: Mix summer squash with other seasonal vegetables and roast them all together for a simple, flavorful dish.
• Stir Fry: Summer squash adds bulk and nutrients to stir-fry dishes. Pair it with tofu or your protein of choice.
• Bread: Freshly baked bread, especially garlic or herbed, pairs wonderfully with summer squash.
• Eggs: Sauteed summer squash makes a great filling for omelets or frittatas.

Tips in making Summer Squash
Summer squash is quite versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some tips to help you make the most of it:

• Selection: Choose smaller, firm squashes as they tend to be sweeter and more tender. The skin should be bright and glossy.
• Storage: Store summer squash in the refrigerator in a plastic bag with holes for ventilation. It should last for about a week.
• Preparation: Unlike winter squash, summer squash doesn't need to be peeled. Simply wash it well and cut off both ends before cooking.
• Cooking Methods: Summer squash can be grilled, sautéed, roasted, steamed, or even eaten raw in salads. It's also great for stuffing or using in stir-fries, soups, and stews.
• Avoid Overcooking: Summer squash cooks quickly and can become mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness by piercing it with a fork.
• Seasoning: Summer squash has a mild flavor that pairs well with a wide range of seasonings. Garlic, onions, tomatoes, basil, oregano, and thyme are all good choices.
• Healthy Option: For a healthier option, try roasting or grilling your summer squash instead of frying.
• Use the Flowers: Don't forget about the squash blossoms! They're edible and can be stuffed, fried, or used in salads.

Side dishes best paired with Summer Squash
Based on the search results, here are some side dishes that pair well with Summer Squash:

• Steamed Zucchini: This simple dish helps to highlight the natural flavors of the squash and zucchini.
• Baked Panko-Breaded Zucchini Fries: These offer a crunchy, flavorful contrast to the soft, mild summer squash.
• Zucchini Corn Fritters: The sweetness of corn complements the squash, and the fritters add a nice textural contrast.
• Southern Baked Yellow Squash: This dish pairs well with summer squash, offering a mix of similar yet distinct flavors.
• Sautéed Yellow Squash: Topped with fresh herbs and bread crumbs, it's a delicious side dish that pairs well with summer squash.
• Vegetable Pesto Flatbread or Vegetable Ribbon Tartines: These veggie-loaded dishes provide a hearty complement to the lightness of summer squash.
• Summer Squash Side Dish Casserole: Combining different types of squash in a casserole can make for a filling and flavorful side dish.
• Hot and Sour Tofu Soup: If you're serving yellow squash during early fall, a hot soup like this can be a comforting accompaniment.

More ideas for Summer Squash
Here are some additional creative ideas for using summer squash:

• Summer Squash Pancakes: Grate the squash and mix it into a savory pancake batter. Serve with sour cream or yogurt.
• Summer Squash Tacos: Use grilled or sautéed squash as a filling for vegetarian tacos.
• Summer Squash Salsa: Dice it up and mix with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a refreshing salsa.
• Squash and Tomato Galette: This rustic tart combines the flavors of summer in a flaky pastry crust.
• Squash Chips: Slice the squash very thin, season, and bake until crisp.
• Summer Squash Slaw: Shred the squash and use it in a slaw as a lighter alternative to cabbage.
• Squash and Corn Chowder: A hearty soup that pairs the sweetness of corn with the mild flavor of squash.
• Summer Squash Quesadillas: Add slices of grilled or sautéed squash to your favorite quesadilla recipe.
• Squash and Cheese Biscuits: Incorporate grated squash into biscuit dough for a twist on the classic.
• Summer Squash Hummus: Blend cooked squash into hummus for a unique and creamy spread.

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