Savory Sautéed Yellow Squash and Onions with Parmesan
Bring a touch of summer to your table with this delightful dish of savory sautéed yellow squash and onions topped with rich Parmesan cheese. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of onions and the tender crispness of yellow squash, making a perfect complement to any grilled meat, especially those marinated in tangy lemon juice. Made conveniently on your gas grill's side burner, this dish minimizes kitchen mess and keeps your focus on the grill. Whether you're cooking with everyday yellow onions or taking advantage of in-season Vidalia onions, this colorful side dish is sure to impress your family and guests alike.
6
Servings
38
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Large Onions
2 (sliced)
Yellow Squash
2 lbs (sliced (if frozen, thaw in a colander first and gently squeeze out the excess moisture))
Butter
1 tablespoon (unsalted)
Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (grated)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Heat a large, heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat and add the butter.
2
Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the sliced onions to the skillet. Sauté the onions for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are translucent and starting to soften.
3
If using frozen yellow squash, add it to the skillet now. Sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes until the squash is cooked through but still firm, and the onions are well-browned and caramelized. If using fresh squash, add it after the onions are half-cooked, and cook until both vegetables are tender and just starting to brown.
4
Once the vegetables are perfectly sautéed, remove the skillet from heat, and toss the mixture with grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
5
Serve immediately, passing freshly ground black pepper at the table for added flavor.
Nutrition Information
1.7g
Fat
5g
Carbs
0.8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Sautéed Yellow Squash and Onions with Parmesan?
It is a vegetable side dish featuring yellow squash and onions sautéed in butter and finished with grated Parmesan cheese.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the main ingredients in this squash recipe?
The main ingredients include large onions, yellow squash, butter, Parmesan cheese, and fresh ground black pepper.
What kind of onions should I use?
You can use regular yellow onions or sweet Vidalia onions when they are in season.
Can I use frozen yellow squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash can be used if you thaw it in a colander first and gently squeeze out the excess moisture.
What type of skillet is recommended?
A large, heavy skillet is recommended, with cast iron being the preferred choice for even heating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains only vegetables, butter, and cheese.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 38 calories.
Can I cook this dish on a grill?
Yes, this recipe is designed to be made conveniently on a gas grill's side burner.
How much butter is needed for sautéing?
You will need 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the sliced onions for about 4-5 minutes until they are translucent and starting to soften.
When do I add fresh yellow squash to the pan?
Add fresh squash after the onions are half-cooked, and continue cooking until both are tender.
When do I add frozen yellow squash to the pan?
If using frozen squash, add it after the initial 4-5 minutes of sautéing the onions.
What is the total cooking time for the squash?
The squash typically needs an additional 4-5 minutes of sautéing until it is cooked through but still firm.
How do I know when the onions are perfectly cooked?
The onions should be well-browned and caramelized by the time the squash is finished.
When should the Parmesan cheese be added?
Toss the mixture with Parmesan cheese after removing the skillet from the heat.
How much Parmesan cheese does the recipe call for?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
Should I add salt to this dish?
The recipe primarily calls for fresh ground black pepper for seasoning; the Parmesan cheese provides natural saltiness.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is approximately 1.7g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 5g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this dish contain any protein?
Yes, each serving contains about 0.8g of protein.
What are some good pairings for this side dish?
It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, especially those marinated in lemon juice.
How should the squash be sliced?
The yellow squash should be sliced before sautéing.
What is the best temperature for sautéing?
Medium-high heat is recommended for the best results.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe specifies unsalted butter, but you can use salted if you prefer a saltier flavor profile.
Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?
Yes, the recipe requires 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
What is the texture of the finished squash?
The squash should be tender but still firm, offering a 'tender-crisp' bite.
Why is a side burner used?
Using the side burner minimizes kitchen mess and allows the cook to stay focused on the main grill.
Can I serve this cold?
It is best served immediately while hot so the cheese can melt and the vegetables remain tender.
Is this a seasonal dish?
While it can be made year-round, it is particularly suited for summer when squash and Vidalia onions are in season.