Is there anything that screams “summer” more than a perfectly grilled vegetable? Grilled summer squash is an easy, flavorful, and healthy side dish that complements just about any main course. Plus, it’s so simple to make that it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about grilling summer squash, from picking the best squash at the market to serving it up with delicious toppings. Let’s get grilling!
Choosing the Right Squash
Not all summer squash are created equal, and each has slightly different characteristics that affect how well they grill.
Types of Summer Squash
- Zucchini: This familiar green squash is a grilling champ, with a mild flavor that takes well to seasonings.
- Yellow squash: Similar to zucchini, yellow squash offers a slightly sweeter flavor and grills beautifully.
- Pattypan squash: These cute, saucer-shaped squash are fun to grill whole or sliced.
- Crookneck squash: With their curved necks and bumpy skin, these squash add visual appeal to the grill.
Selecting Fresh Squash
When choosing summer squash for grilling, look for these qualities:
- Firm, smooth skin
- No blemishes or soft spots
- A weight that feels heavy for its size
Preparing the Squash for Grilling
The key to great grilled squash is in the prep work. Here’s how to get your squash ready for the grill:
Washing and Cutting
Start by rinsing the squash under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, trim off the ends. How you cut the squash depends on your preference and how you plan to grill it:
- Quarters lengthwise: This method is ideal for grilling directly on the grates, as it provides a large, stable surface area.
- Slices: Slices can be grilled directly on the grates or in a grill basket.
- Cubes: Cubes are perfect for skewers or grill baskets, making them easy to handle and cook evenly.
Seasoning and Marinating
Simple seasonings can enhance the natural flavor of the squash. A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a grind of pepper are all you need.
Or, for a deeper flavor, try a quick marinade of fresh herbs, garlic, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. Let the squash sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors. Don’t throw away the leftover marinade, you can reuse it by pouring it over the grilled squash.
Grilling Techniques and Tools
The key to great grilled summer squash is all in the method. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years.
Grill Preparation
First, scrape the grill grates clean. Then, spray them with grill spray or rub them with a cut onion or potato to make sure the squash doesn’t stick.
Preheat the grill to medium heat if you’re only grilling squash.
If you’re grilling meat at the same time, create different heat zones on your grill and place the squash around the edges for indirect heat.
Grilling Methods
To prevent the squash from burning, use a grill basket, especially if you’re working with smaller pieces.
Turn the squash every so often so it cooks evenly. You’re aiming for squash that’s tender and has a few lightly charred spots.
Essential Grilling Tools
Here are the tools I find most helpful when I’m grilling summer squash:
- Grill basket
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Sturdy skewers
Recipe Variations and Flavor Enhancements
Grilled summer squash is delicious, of course, but there are ways to add some extra flair to the basic recipe.
Honey-Glazed Squash
A honey glaze can add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful sheen to grilled squash. To make the glaze, combine honey, a splash of vinegar, a dash of soy sauce, and a tiny bit of chili paste. Simmer the mixture until it reduces and thickens slightly. Brush the glaze onto the squash during the last few minutes of grilling for a sticky-sweet finish.
Tuscan-Inspired Grilled Squash
For a taste of the Mediterranean, try a Tuscan-style marinade. Combine minced garlic, fresh rosemary, oregano, lemon juice, a splash of red wine vinegar, and good-quality olive oil. Marinate the squash for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Crosshatch Pattern
For an extra-appealing presentation (and better flavor!), try rotating the squash 90 degrees halfway through grilling to create a crosshatch pattern. Besides looking great, this technique gives you better flavor penetration and helps release excess water from the squash.
Key Takeaways
Grilled summer squash is a simple, delicious way to add healthy veggies to your plate. Serve it alongside grilled turkey burgers or shrimp skewers for a quick and easy meal. It’s also great as a side with grilled chicken or fish, or chopped up and tossed into salads or grain bowls.
Best of all, grilled summer squash is low in calories and fat, and it’s a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a guilt-free addition to your summer menu.