Sun-Kissed Summer Squash Medley
Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with this Sun-Kissed Summer Squash Medley. This dish showcases the natural sweetness and color of summer squash, enhanced by caramelized onions and fragrant thyme. It's designed for quick preparation, allowing you to enjoy a healthy, delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Serve it warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or meal prep. It can easily be transformed into a satisfying main course when served over whole grains like brown rice or barley and garnished with toasted pine nuts and creamy feta or goat cheese. This recipe celebrates the freshness of summer produce while providing a wholesome dish that everyone will adore.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 1/2-2 tablespoons (divided)
Medium Onions
2 (thinly sliced)
Salt
1/8 teaspoon (possibly more)
Summer Squash
1 1/2 lbs (cut into 1/2-inch thick slices or cubes)
Garlic
1 teaspoon (minced or crushed)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
to taste
Fresh Thyme
to taste (minced)
Pine Nuts
handful (lightly toasted (optional))
Feta Cheese or Goat Cheese
3-4 ounces (crumbled (optional))
Instructions
1
Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute.
2
Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, swirling it around the pan to coat evenly.
3
Introduce the thinly sliced onions along with the salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for approximately 10 minutes until the onions become very tender and develop a light golden color.
4
Transfer the cooked onions to a bowl and set aside.
5
In the same skillet, add an additional 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil, ensuring the pan is slick.
6
Arrange the squash in a single layer in the pan. Allow it to cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the bottom is golden brown.
7
Once golden, toss or stir the squash and continue cooking undisturbed for another 1-2 minutes until it turns deeply golden on the other side.
8
Add the minced garlic to the pan, followed by the reserved caramelized onions. Stir well to combine.
9
Season the mixture with additional salt if needed and fresh ground black pepper, to taste.
10
Serve the dish hot, warm, or at room temperature. Garnish with freshly minced thyme, a handful of lightly toasted pine nuts, and crumbled feta or goat cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sun-Kissed Summer Squash Medley?
It is a vibrant summer dish featuring summer squash, caramelized onions, and fragrant thyme, designed to be healthy and quick to prepare.
How long does it take to cook the onions?
The onions should be cooked over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes until they are very tender and light golden.
What type of oil is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
At what temperature should the squash medley be served?
This dish can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.
How should I prepare the summer squash?
The squash should be cut into 1/2-inch thick slices or cubes.
How do I ensure the squash gets golden brown?
Arrange the squash in a single layer in the skillet and allow it to cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes per side.
Can I make this a main course?
Yes, you can transform it into a main course by serving it over whole grains like brown rice or barley.
What type of cheese can be added as a garnish?
The recipe suggests using 3-4 ounces of crumbled feta or goat cheese.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
When should the garlic be added?
The minced garlic should be added to the pan after the squash has browned, along with the reserved caramelized onions.
What herbs are used in this dish?
Freshly minced thyme is used to garnish and flavor the medley.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the description states it is perfect for meal prep as it can be enjoyed at various temperatures.
Are pine nuts required?
Pine nuts are optional; if used, they should be a handful and lightly toasted.
How many onions do I need?
The recipe requires 2 medium onions, thinly sliced.
What is the total amount of summer squash required?
You will need 1 1/2 pounds of summer squash.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian vegetable dish.
What is the heat setting for cooking?
The skillet should be heated over medium heat.
How much salt is used initially?
The recipe starts with 1/8 teaspoon of salt added to the onions, with more added later to taste if needed.
Can I use this recipe for picnics?
Yes, its ability to be served at room temperature makes it ideal for picnics.
How much garlic is included?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of minced or crushed garlic.
What type of pepper should I use?
Fresh ground black pepper is recommended to taste.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total, including optional items like pine nuts and cheese.
Is the onion prep specific?
Yes, the 2 medium onions should be thinly sliced before cooking.
Should the skillet be preheated?
Yes, you should heat the skillet for about 1 minute before adding the oil.
What do I do with the onions after they are cooked?
Transfer the cooked onions to a bowl and set them aside while you cook the squash.
What grains are recommended to serve with this?
The recipe recommends brown rice or barley.
How long do I cook the squash on the second side?
Cook the squash undisturbed for another 1-2 minutes once it has been tossed or stirred.
Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?
Yes, the recipe specifies that either creamy feta or goat cheese can be used.
Is the dish considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy cooking' and 'quick meal' recipe.
What is the main flavor profile of the dish?
The dish features the natural sweetness of summer squash and caramelized onions, complemented by fragrant thyme.