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Sautéed Yellow Squash with Crispy Herb Topping

Sautéed Yellow Squash with Crispy Herb Topping

Discover a quick and healthy side dish featuring tender sautéed yellow squash topped with a flavorful and crunchy herb crust. This vibrant recipe combines the natural sweetness of squash with fresh herbs, garlic, lemon zest, and crispy breadcrumbs, making it a perfect, guilt-free addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 medium yellow squash, washed and sliced into ¼ inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or basil)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Squash: Wash and trim the ends of your yellow squash, then slice them into uniform rounds about ¼ inch thick to ensure even cooking and a pleasant bite.
  2. Prepare the Crispy Herb Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with finely chopped fresh herbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil to help the mixture crisp up beautifully.
  3. Sauté the Squash: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced squash in a single layer—avoid overcrowding—and sauté for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until tender and golden brown.
  4. Add the Topping and Finish Cooking: Sprinkle the crispy herb topping evenly over the squash slices in the pan. Cover briefly and let the topping toast for 1-2 minutes until it becomes golden and crunchy, giving the dish its signature texture and flavor.
  5. Serve Warm: Transfer immediately to a serving plate to enjoy the best contrast between the warm, tender squash and the fresh, crunchy topping.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure perfect caramelization; sauté in batches if necessary.
  • For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs separately in a dry pan before mixing with herbs.
  • Keep squash slices slightly thick to avoid mushiness and maintain a tender-crisp texture.
  • Add lemon zest just before serving to preserve its fresh aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: yellow squash, sautéed squash, crispy herb topping, quick side dish, healthy vegetables, gluten free side