Grilled squash is a delicious and easy-to-make picnic side dish that is sure to be a hit with your friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add some flavor to your summer cookout or just want to try something new, grilling squash is the perfect way to do it. Not only is it a great way to add some extra flavor to your meal, but it’s also a great way to get some extra veggies in your diet. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any extra squash you may have lying around.
So, if you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your summer picnic, why not give grilled squash a try?
Grilled Squash
Grilled squash is a delicious and easy-to-make picnic side dish that will be sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re grilling up a summer squash or a winter squash, the process is the same. Just get creative and enjoy yourself.
Because no matter which squash you choose to grill, this is one tasty side dish your guests will never forget!
Ingredients to Make Grilled Squash
- 1 butternut squash
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- Pinch of both salt and ground black pepper
How to Make Grilled Squash
On the cutting board, cut the garlic cloves. Set it aside.
With a sharp knife, on the cutting board, cut off the ends of the squash. Then cut it lengthwise into thin slices. Peel the slices. Set it aside.
In a small bowl combine together olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.
Preheat a grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the squash slices and brush with oil mixture on both sides.
Then cover with aluminum foil and gril for about 5 minutes per side or until tender.
What Type of Squash is Best for Grilling?
Grilling squash is a great way to enjoy the summertime flavors of this delicious vegetable. Whether you’re looking for a picnic side dish or a main course, grilled squash is a great option. But with so many varieties of squash available, it can be hard to know which one is best for grilling.
The most popular type of squash for grilling is zucchini. Its mild flavor and firm texture make it a great choice for grilling. It also cooks quickly, so you don’t have to wait too long to enjoy your grilled squash.
Another great option is yellow squash. It has a slightly sweeter flavor than zucchini and is also firm enough to hold up on the grill. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, try grilling a spaghetti squash. This type of squash has a mild flavor and a unique texture that makes it perfect for grilling. It also cooks quickly, so you can enjoy your grilled squash in no time.
My personal favorite, though is butternut squash. Butternut squash also presents an excellent choice for grilling. This winter squash variety, with its sweet, nutty flavor, truly shines when grilled. Its dense flesh caramelizes beautifully, resulting in a slightly crispy outside with a tender and juicy inside – an ideal texture contrast. This squash variety maintains its shape well when cooked, which makes it perfect for skewers or grilling directly on the grate. Moreover, butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, making it a nourishing addition to your grill. Thus, for a delightful grilling experience and a boost of flavor and nutrition, don’t overlook the potential of butternut squash.
No matter which type of squash you choose, grilling is a great way to enjoy the flavors of summer. With a few simple tips, you can easily grill squash and enjoy a delicious picnic side dish or main course.
Creative Ways to Grill Squash for a Picnic
If you want to take your squash grilling experience to the next level, you’ll likely want to try adding a little something to your recipe. Although the above is kind of my go-to, I also like to spice it up with these little spins:
Grilled Squash with Herbs and Feta Cheese
For a Mediterranean twist, try this simple and flavorful recipe. Cut a squash into thin slices, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until tender. Remove from the grill and while still warm, sprinkle with your favorite chopped fresh herbs (like basil, parsley, or mint) and crumbled feta cheese. The warmth of the squash will slightly melt the cheese, resulting in a perfect blend of salty, tangy, and savory flavors.
Grilled Squash Tacos
For a creative and delicious vegetarian option, consider grilling squash for tacos. Slice your squash, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with a spicy taco seasoning. Grill until tender, then place inside warm tortillas. Top with salsa, avocado, and fresh cilantro for a satisfying and healthful meal that’s full of flavor.
Grilled Squash Skewers with Lemon and Rosemary
If you’re a fan of kebabs, try threading cubes of squash onto skewers, alternating with slices of red onion and bell pepper. Brush with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh rosemary, then grill until tender. The result is a vibrant and aromatic skewer that’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course.
Sweet Grilled Squash with Cinnamon and Honey
For a sweet treat, cut your squash into slices, brush with a mixture of melted butter, honey, and cinnamon, then grill until caramelized. This sweet grilled squash makes a delightful dessert or a unique sweet-and-savoury side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled pork or chicken, or it can be served with vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s sure to impress.
These recipes are just the beginning. Feel free to experiment with your own combinations of flavors and ingredients. The possibilities are endless when it comes to grilling squash!
More Fun Picnic Ideas You’ll Love
Planning a picnic can be so much fun! To help you get your little outdoor excursion pulled together, we’ve got some more fun picnic ideas we think you’ll love:
- 17 Picnic Desserts That Don’t Need Refrigeration
- Classic Italian Picnic Sandwich
- How to Plan an Authentic Italian Picnic
- 17 Breakfast Picnic Ideas
Grilled Squash
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- Pinch of both salt and ground black pepper
Instructions
- On the cutting board, cut the garlic cloves. Set it aside.2 garlic cloves
- With a sharp knife, on the cutting board, cut off the ends of the squash. Then cut it lengthwise into thin slices. Peel the slices. Set it aside.1 butternut squash
- In a small bowl combine together olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.3 tbsp olive oil, 2 garlic cloves, Pinch of both salt and ground black pepper
- Preheat a grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the squash slices and brush with oil mixture on both sides.1 butternut squash
- Then cover with aluminum foil and grill for about 5 minutes per side or until tender.
