There’s something truly delightful about this Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe that makes it a standout side dish or light snack all year round. The tender, smoky strips of yellow squash marry beautifully with the subtle zing of garlic and freshness of parsley, delivering a taste that’s both simple and vibrant. If you’re looking for an easy, colorful, and flavorful way to enjoy summer vegetables, this recipe is bound to become your go-to. Trust me, once you master this technique, grilling yellow squash will feel like second nature and impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential—they work together to highlight the natural sweetness and texture of the yellow squash while bringing in a touch of savory richness and herbaceous brightness.
- 3 medium yellow squash: Cut into long, 1/4 inch strips to ensure even grilling and a perfect tender bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps achieve those gorgeous grill marks while enhancing flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the squash with a mild, savory punch without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, vibrant finish and lovely pop of color.
How to Make Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Start by heating your grill or a grill pan on the stovetop to medium-high heat. This temperature is perfect for getting those beautiful grill marks on the squash without burning it, locking in flavor and crispness.
Step 2: Slice the Squash
Cut the yellow squash into long strips about 1/4 inch thick. This size allows the squash to cook evenly and quickly on the grill while maintaining a lovely texture—neither too mushy nor too raw.
Step 3: Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple blend gives the squash that irresistible balance of savory, salty, and aromatic flavor coast-to-coast.
Step 4: Coat the Squash
Brush or pour the olive oil mixture generously over both sides of each squash strip. This step is where the magic happens—each piece will soak in the flavors and get ready for that smoky char on the grill.
Step 5: Grill the Squash
Place the squash strips on the hot grill. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes so grill lines can form beautifully. Flip each strip and continue grilling for another 2 to 4 minutes until the squash is tender and has a slight caramelized edge.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the tender, smoky yellow squash onto a large platter. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley on top to add a burst of color and refreshing brightness. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the classic choice here, but don’t hesitate to experiment with a squeeze of lemon juice or a scattering of toasted pine nuts for extra zing and crunch. A bit of grated Parmesan can also add a nice salty contrast if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
This Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, or alongside a hearty grain salad for a vegetarian meal. It’s also fantastic tossed into pasta dishes or served with a dollop of herbed yogurt sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your dish pop by layering the grilled squash in a colorful vegetable platter, drizzling with balsamic glaze, or rolling the strips into little veggie wraps with goat cheese and fresh herbs. The natural colors and textures make every presentation striking and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled yellow squash keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy additions to sandwiches and salads.
Freezing
Though fresh is best, you can freeze grilled yellow squash if needed. Place the cooled squash strips in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for about 2 months but may lose some texture upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the squash in a skillet over medium heat or briefly on the grill to revive its smoky flavor and tenderness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can become mushy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe highlights yellow squash, zucchini or pattypan squash work beautifully too, with slight variations in cooking time based on thickness.
Do I need to peel the yellow squash?
No peeling is necessary. The skin of yellow squash is thin and tender when grilled, adding lovely color and nutrients to the dish.
What can I do if I don’t have a grill?
No grill? No problem! A grill pan on the stovetop or even the broiler works well to achieve similar results. Just keep an eye on the squash to avoid burning.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe is completely vegan, making it a fantastic option for plant-based meals or side dishes.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Try fresh thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. The base recipe is very versatile and welcomes your personal touch.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe is one of those simple yet satisfying dishes that quickly becomes a favorite. It’s quick to make, colorful, healthy, and packed with fresh garden flavors. I encourage you to give it a try soon—once you taste that lightly charred, tender squash kissed with garlic and herbs, you’ll want it on your table all the time.
Print
Grilled Yellow Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Yellow Squash recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to enjoy fresh summer squash with minimal ingredients. Perfectly seasoned and cooked on a grill or stovetop grill pan, the yellow squash slices develop beautiful grill marks and a tender texture enhanced by the subtle garlic and fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Yellow Squash
- 3 medium yellow squash, cut into long, 1/4 inch strips
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan on the stovetop to medium-high heat to ensure it’s ready for cooking the squash evenly.
- Prepare the Squash: Lay out the yellow squash slices on a cutting board, arranging them so they are ready to be brushed with the seasoning mix.
- Make the Olive Oil Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Season the Squash: Using a brush or pouring carefully, coat both sides of each squash strip with the olive oil and seasoning mixture to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
- Grill the Squash: Place the seasoned squash strips directly on the grill grates. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until grill lines form, then flip and cook for another 2 to 4 minutes until the squash is tender but still holds its shape.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled squash strips to a large platter, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for brightness and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use a grill pan if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill for similar results.
- Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of the squash slices to avoid overcooking.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can be used as a garnish for variation.
- For a smoky flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the olive oil mixture.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a light vegetarian side.
