Savory Southern Sautéed Yellow Squash and Bacon
This delightful dish brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh yellow squash and crispy bacon, creating a comforting Southern classic that has been cherished by families for generations. Inspired by my mother-in-law's effortless style of cooking, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering side dish that's perfect for any meal. The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the smoky richness of the bacon, making it an irresistible addition to your dinner table. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as part of a hearty brunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don't forget to make a double batch—it's that good!
6
Servings
95
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
bacon
5 slices (diced)
yellow squash
5-6 small (sliced)
medium onion
1 (chopped)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, fry the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
2
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
3
Add the sliced yellow squash to the skillet and stir well. Cook, stirring frequently, until the squash is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4
Season the squash and onion mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Crumble the crispy bacon and add it back to the skillet, stirring to combine all the ingredients.
6
Serve hot as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian delight.
Nutrition Information
4g
Protein
150mg
Sodium
8mg
Cholesterol
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Southern Sautéed Yellow Squash and Bacon?
It is a classic Southern side dish that combines fresh yellow squash, crispy bacon, and sautéed onions for a comforting and flavorful meal.
What kind of squash is best for this recipe?
Small to medium yellow crookneck or straightneck squash are best as they have thinner skins and fewer seeds.
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes, zucchini is an excellent substitute or can be mixed with the yellow squash for additional color.
How much bacon is needed?
The recipe calls for 5 slices of diced bacon, which provides both the fat for sautéing and a smoky flavor.
Do I need to peel the yellow squash?
No, peeling is not necessary as the skin of yellow squash is thin and becomes tender during cooking.
How should I slice the squash?
Slice the squash into uniform rounds or half-moons about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
What type of onion works best?
A medium yellow or white onion works best, but a sweet Vidalia onion is also a great Southern choice.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, but you will need to add oil or butter to the pan since you won't have the rendered bacon fat to sauté the vegetables.
Should I drain the bacon grease?
No, leave the rendered fat in the skillet after removing the crispy bacon; it is used to flavor and cook the onions and squash.
How long does it take to sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onion for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft.
How do I know when the squash is finished cooking?
The squash is done when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork, which typically takes 8 to 10 minutes.
Can I add garlic to this dish?
Yes, adding minced garlic during the last minute of sautéing the onions adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 95 calories per serving in this dish.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, squash and bacon are both low-carb ingredients, making this a great choice for a ketogenic diet.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and sauté the vegetables in olive oil or butter instead.
What main courses pair well with this squash?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, pork chops, meatloaf, or even served alongside a hearty brunch.
How should I store leftover squash?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze sautéed yellow squash?
Freezing is not recommended because the squash has a high water content and will become mushy when thawed.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in a skillet over medium heat helps maintain the texture better than using a microwave.
Can I use frozen squash?
Frozen squash can be used, but it will release more moisture and result in a softer final texture than fresh squash.
What other seasonings can I add?
Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a brighter flavor profile.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but make sure to use a very large skillet or cook in batches to prevent the squash from steaming rather than sautéing.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is portioned to serve 6 people.
Is this a kid-friendly side dish?
Yes, the mild flavor of the squash combined with the saltiness of the bacon makes it a hit with most children.
What size skillet is recommended?
A 12-inch skillet is recommended to provide enough space for the vegetables to cook evenly.
Why did my squash turn out soggy?
Sogginess is usually caused by overcooking or crowding the pan. Cook until just tender and avoid covering the pan with a lid.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Yes, sprinkling shredded cheddar or parmesan over the top just before serving is a delicious variation.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe contains no dairy products.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, but turkey bacon is much leaner than pork bacon, so you will need to add oil to the pan to sauté the onions.