Transform Your BBQ with Grilled Squash: The Ultimate Guide on How to Grill Squash on Gas Grill

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce, and squash is a versatile ingredient that shines on the grill. But how do you grill squash on a gas grill to achieve that perfect balance of smoky flavor and tender texture? Worry not, fellow grill enthusiasts! This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing the right squash to mastering the grilling techniques.

Choosing the Right Squash

Not all squash are created equal when it comes to grilling. Some varieties are better suited for grilling than others. Here are a few popular choices:

• Butternut Squash: This classic choice boasts a sweet, nutty flavor and a firm texture that holds up well on the grill.
• Acorn Squash: With its unique, acorn-shaped appearance, this squash offers a mild, sweet flavor and a dense, meaty texture.
• Delicata Squash: This thin-skinned squash is known for its delicate flavor and tender texture. It’s perfect for grilling because it cooks quickly.
• Kabocha Squash: This Japanese squash has a vibrant orange flesh and a sweet, slightly nutty flavor. Its dense texture makes it ideal for grilling.

Preparing the Squash

Once you’ve chosen your squash, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Here’s how:

1. Wash and Cut: Wash the squash thoroughly and cut it in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and any stringy fibers.
2. Seasoning: Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. For a more flavorful experience, consider adding garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes.
3. Optional: Stuffing: If you’d like to add some extra flavor and texture, you can stuff the squash with your favorite ingredients. Some popular options include:

• Herbed goat cheese: This creamy cheese complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully.
• Sausage and peppers: This savory combination adds a hearty touch to your grilled squash.
• Rice and quinoa: For a more substantial meal, stuff the squash with cooked rice or quinoa and your favorite vegetables.

Grilling the Squash

Now comes the fun part: grilling! Here’s how to grill your squash to perfection:

1. Preheat Your Grill: Preheat your gas grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F).
2. Grill Cut-Side Down: Place the squash halves cut-side down on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly charred.
3. Flip and Cook: Carefully flip the squash halves and cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the flesh is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
4. Check for Doneness: To check if the squash is cooked through, insert a fork into the flesh. It should easily pierce the squash and feel tender.

Serving Your Grilled Squash

Your grilled squash is ready to enjoy! Here are some ideas for serving it:

• As a Side Dish: Serve your grilled squash alongside grilled meats, fish, or poultry.
• As a Main Course: Stuff the squash with your favorite fillings and enjoy it as a hearty vegetarian main course.
• In a Salad: Cut the grilled squash into cubes and add it to your favorite salad for a burst of flavor and texture.
• In a Soup: Blend the grilled squash with broth and spices to create a delicious soup.

Tips for Grilling Squash

Here are a few tips to help you grill squash like a pro:

• Use a Grill Brush: Before grilling, brush your grill grates with a grill brush to remove any debris.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give your squash plenty of space on the grill to ensure even cooking.
• Wrap in Foil: If you’re concerned about the squash sticking to the grill, wrap it in foil before grilling.
• Add Flavor: Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to create your own unique grilled squash dishes.

Beyond the Basics: Grilled Squash Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basics of grilling squash, you can explore endless variations and flavor combinations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Honey-Glazed Squash: Brush the squash with honey before grilling for a sweet and sticky glaze.
• Spicy Squash: Add a kick to your squash by sprinkling it with chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• Herbed Squash: Enhance the flavor of your squash with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
• Cheese-Stuffed Squash: Stuff the squash with your favorite cheese, such as goat cheese, feta cheese, or mozzarella cheese.

The Final Bite: Embracing the Flavor of Grilled Squash

Grilling squash is a simple yet rewarding experience. It unlocks the natural sweetness of the squash, adds a delicious smoky flavor, and transforms it into a truly irresistible dish. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish, a main course, or a creative ingredient in your favorite recipes, grilled squash is sure to please your taste buds. So, fire up your gas grill and get ready to savor the deliciousness of grilled squash!

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I grill squash on a charcoal grill?

A: Absolutely! The process is similar to grilling on a gas grill. Just make sure your charcoal grill is hot enough and that you have enough charcoal to maintain the heat throughout the cooking process.

Q: How long does it take to grill squash?

A: The grilling time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the squash. Generally, it takes about 15-20 minutes for the cut-side down and another 5-10 minutes for the other side.

Q: Can I grill squash with the skin on?

A: Yes, you can grill squash with the skin on. However, it may be a bit more challenging to remove the skin after grilling. If you decide to grill with the skin on, make sure to prick the skin with a fork to prevent it from bursting.

Q: What are some good toppings for grilled squash?

A: The possibilities are endless! Some popular toppings include crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans, chopped fresh herbs, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.