What To Know
- Learning how to grill squash unlocks a world of flavor, turning this humble veggie into a star of the summer table.
- You can also roast squash in the oven, sauté it in a pan, or even bake it into a delicious dessert.
- If your squash starts to get too soft, you can move it to indirect heat or take it off the grill altogether.
Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy the bounty of fresh produce. And while burgers and hot dogs reign supreme, there’s a whole world of delicious grilled vegetables waiting to be explored. One of our favorites? Squash! Learning how to grill squash unlocks a world of flavor, turning this humble veggie into a star of the summer table.
Why Grill Squash?
Grilling squash brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavor that you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, grilling is a simple and healthy way to cook squash. You can toss it with a little oil and spices, and let the grill do the rest.
Choosing the Right Squash
The first step to mastering how to grill squash is choosing the right variety. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Butternut Squash: With its rich, nutty flavor and firm texture, butternut squash holds up well on the grill.
- Acorn Squash: This small, squat squash has a sweet, slightly nutty flavor and a tender texture.
- Kabocha Squash: This Japanese squash has a sweet, earthy flavor and a creamy texture.
- Delicata Squash: With its thin skin and delicate flavor, delicata squash is a great choice for grilling.
Preparing Squash for Grilling
Once you’ve chosen your squash, it’s time to prep it for grilling. Here’s how:
1. Wash and Dry: Start by washing the squash thoroughly under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels.
2. Cut and Seed: Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any stringy fibers.
3. Slice or Cube: Depending on the size of your squash and your desired grilling time, you can slice it into thick rounds or cube it.
4. Season: Drizzle the squash with olive oil and season it with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
Grilling Time!
Now it’s time to fire up the grill! Here are some grilling tips for squash:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium heat (about 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Grill Directly: Place the squash directly on the grill grates.
- Grill Time: Grilling time will vary depending on the thickness of the squash and the intensity of your grill. Generally, it takes about 10-15 minutes per side.
- Check for Doneness: The squash is done when it’s tender and slightly charred on the outside. You can check for doneness by piercing it with a fork.
Serving Up Grilled Squash
Grilled squash is delicious on its own, but it’s also a versatile ingredient that can be added to salads, soups, and other dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:
- As a Side Dish: Serve grilled squash alongside grilled meats, chicken, or fish.
- In a Salad: Add grilled squash to a salad with greens, nuts, and a vinaigrette.
- In a Soup: Purée grilled squash with broth and spices to make a creamy soup.
- In a Stuffed Dish: Stuff grilled squash with quinoa, rice, or other grains.
Beyond the Basics: Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basics of how to grill squash, there are endless ways to get creative with flavor. Here are a few ideas:
- Sweet and Spicy: Toss the squash with brown sugar, chili powder, and cumin before grilling.
- Herby: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the squash before grilling.
- Citrusy: Drizzle the squash with lemon or lime juice before grilling.
- Cheesy: Top grilled squash with crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or Parmesan cheese.
The Final Bite: Beyond the Grill
While grilling is a fantastic way to enjoy squash, it’s not the only way! You can also roast squash in the oven, sauté it in a pan, or even bake it into a delicious dessert.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I grill squash with the skin on?
A: While some varieties of squash have edible skins, most need to be peeled before grilling. The skin can be tough and difficult to chew.
Q: What if my squash gets too soft while grilling?
A: If your squash starts to get too soft, you can move it to indirect heat or take it off the grill altogether. You can also add a few minutes of grilling time to help it firm up.
Q: How long can I store grilled squash?
A: Grilled squash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some other vegetables that can be grilled?
A: Many vegetables are delicious grilled, including zucchini, eggplant, peppers, onions, and asparagus.
Q: How can I prevent squash from sticking to the grill?
A: To prevent sticking, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. You can also use a grill mat or foil.
Whether you’re a seasoned grilling pro or just starting out, mastering how to grill squash is a delicious and rewarding experience. So fire up the grill, grab some fresh squash, and get ready to enjoy a summer feast!
