If you are searching for a vibrant, healthy, and irresistibly tasty way to enjoy summer vegetables, this Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe is a total game changer. Bright, tender yellow squash kissed with smoky grill marks and infused with simple herbs and spices creates a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. This easy recipe celebrates the natural sweetness and delicate texture of yellow squash, transforming it into a standout side or light main that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by its simplicity—each ingredient in this Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe is carefully chosen to enhance flavor, texture, and color, creating a harmonious dish that pleases every palate.
- 3 medium yellow squash: Cut into long, quarter-inch strips to ensure even grilling and the perfect tender-crisp bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the spices cling to the squash while promoting those gorgeous grill marks.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering the squash’s delicate sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Brings a subtle warmth and a bit of a peppery kick that balances the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the squash with gentle aromatic notes that elevate the overall taste.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous brightness and a pop of color on top.
How to Make Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Start by heating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is crucial to achieving those beautiful, caramelized grill marks that give the squash its signature smoky flavor and appealing texture.
Step 2: Slice the Yellow Squash
Lay the yellow squash out on a cutting board and carefully slice them into long strips about 1/4 inch thick. This shape ensures they cook evenly and quickly on the grill without falling apart.
Step 3: Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. This flavorful mixture will coat the squash, protecting it from drying out and infusing it with savory goodness.
Step 4: Coat the Squash
Brush or pour this olive oil seasoning mixture generously over both sides of each squash slice. Don’t be shy—this step helps build flavor and prevents the squash from sticking to the grill.
Step 5: Grill the Squash
Place the prepared yellow squash strips on the hot grill. Let them cook absentmindedly for 3 to 4 minutes until grill lines appear, then flip each strip carefully. Continue grilling for another 2 to 4 minutes until the squash is tender but still holds its shape.
Step 6: Add Final Touches and Serve
Transfer the grilled squash to a large platter and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil lend a lovely brightness, while a light drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crumbled feta can add an extra layer of flavor. A touch of toasted pine nuts adds delightful crunch and nuttiness.
Side Dishes
This Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty quinoa salad. It also complements a summer pasta or a rustic loaf of crusty bread to soak up any juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the grilled squash layered in a colorful vegetable platter alongside grilled tomatoes and zucchini, or roll the slices with goat cheese and fresh herbs for a fun appetizer. You can even toss the cooled grilled strips into a warm grain bowl for a flavorful vegetarian dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled yellow squash keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s great for quick lunches or as a ready-to-go side to jazz up your next meal.
Freezing
Though the texture may soften after freezing, you can freeze grilled squash for up to a month by placing the cooled pieces in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible. It’s ideal for adding to soups or stews post-thawing.
Reheating
To bring back some of that fresh-off-the-grill magic, reheat leftover grilled yellow squash in a hot skillet for just a couple of minutes or under the broiler to quickly regain crisp edges without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe highlights yellow squash, you can swap in zucchini or pattypan squash with great results. Just adjust grilling time slightly depending on the squash thickness.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No grill? No problem! Grill pans or even a broiler work wonderfully for this recipe. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning and turn the strips as needed to get those coveted grill marks.
How can I make this recipe vegan or allergy-friendly?
This recipe is naturally vegan and allergy-friendly as written—no dairy, gluten, or nuts involved. Simply double-check your spices and oil source if allergies are a concern.
Is it okay to marinate the squash longer for more flavor?
Yes! Marinating the squash slices in the olive oil and spices for about 15-30 minutes before grilling can deepen the flavor, but even a quick brush before grilling works beautifully for a quick prep.
How do I know when the squash is done grilling?
The squash should have visible grill marks, a slightly softened texture, and a tender bite without being mushy. Typically, 5 to 8 minutes total on medium-high heat does the trick.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe is one of those simple, joyful dishes that never fails to brighten any meal with its fresh, smoky flavor and beautiful presentation. It’s a wonderful way to embrace seasonal vegetables and makes for an effortless, crowd-pleasing side or starter. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your cooking rotation.
Print
Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy and flavorful grilled yellow squash recipe features tender yellow squash strips seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, then grilled to perfection for a delightful side dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Yellow Squash
- 3 medium yellow squash (cut into long, 1/4 inch strips)
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the squash.
- Prepare the Squash: Arrange the 1/4 inch thick yellow squash strips evenly on a cutting board for easy seasoning.
- Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder to create a flavorful marinade.
- Coat the Squash: Brush or drizzle the olive oil mixture thoroughly on both sides of the squash strips ensuring even coverage.
- Grill the Squash: Place the seasoned squash strips on the hot grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until grill marks appear, then flip and continue grilling for another 2 to 4 minutes until the squash is tender.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled squash to a large platter, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use medium-sized squash for uniform grilling.
- You can substitute fresh parsley with basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust seasoning quantities to taste, adding more garlic powder or pepper if desired.
- Serve alongside grilled meats or as a healthy vegetable side dish.
- To prevent sticking, oil the grill grates lightly before placing the squash.
