This Easy Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash is a tasty and healthy side dish that’s super simple to make. Just slice the squash, sprinkle with parmesan, and bake until tender!
It’s so delicious that even the pickiest eaters might ask for seconds. I can’t help but snack on the crispy edges. Who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
I love making this as a quick side for dinner. It’s bright, cheesy, and makes me feel good about eating my greens. Plus, it’s ready in no time—perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh, medium-sized yellow squash is perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well too! It’s just as flavorful, and the dish will still be delicious.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy touch. Feel free to substitute with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese if you need a lactose-free option. Just be mindful of the salt level since some cheeses can be saltier than others!
Olive Oil: I always go for extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If needed, you can use other oils like avocado oil or melted butter, but olive oil is my favorite for this dish.
Garlic Powder: This gives a simple flavor boost. If you have fresh garlic on hand, feel free to use that instead! Just mince a clove or two and toss it in with the squash.
How Do I Ensure My Squash is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the squash just right is all about slicing and baking. Here’s how to nail it:
- Slicing: Aim for 1/4-inch rounds—this ensures even cooking and nice texture.
- Baking: Keep an eye on it while baking. If you like your squash crispy, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
- Add some crunch: For extra crunch, toss in some panko breadcrumbs with the Parmesan. It gives a nice texture contrast!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have beautifully baked Parmesan yellow squash that’s tender, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Easy Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium yellow squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will only take about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake. So you can have a delicious side ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Before anything else, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial to ensure your squash cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crispiness from the Parmesan.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Take the yellow squash, wash them under cool water, and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices even so they cook at the same rate. There’s no need to peel the squash; the skin adds flavor and nutrients!
3. Season the Squash:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced squash with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning (if you’re using it), and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Mix well until all the squash is nicely coated; this will add flavor and help the cheese stick!
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease it. Spread the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on the baking sheet; this helps them bake evenly and get crispy.
5. Add the Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the squash slices. This will create a tasty, cheesy crust as they bake!
6. Bake It:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the squash to be tender and the Parmesan to turn golden and crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked to perfection, carefully take the squash out of the oven. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these delicious treats warm and enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with zucchini, eggplant, or even bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this dish dairy-free by substituting the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese option or using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just adjust the salt since some dairy-free cheeses can be saltier than Parmesan!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can slice the squash and toss it with the olive oil and seasoning in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to add the Parmesan right before baking so it gets that lovely golden crust!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Enjoy it as a side dish or add it to salads for extra flavor!
