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Large yellow summer squash is a versatile ingredient you can stuff, grill, roast, blend into soups, or bake into bread.
If you’ve got more large yellow summer squash than you know what to do with, you’re in the right place.
Knowing what to do with large yellow summer squash means you’ll never let a single one go to waste again.
In this post, we’ll explore what to do with large yellow summer squash, from classic recipes to creative tricks that use up every last bite.
Let’s dive in.
What to Do With Large Yellow Summer Squash
What to do with large yellow summer squash starts with understanding that bigger squash need slightly different handling than their smaller cousins.
Large yellow summer squash can be tough and seedy, so the goal is to work with those qualities instead of against them.
Here are the best ways to make the most of your harvest.
1. Stuff Them Like Boats
One of the best answers to what to do with large yellow summer squash is to hollow them out and stuff them.
Large yellow summer squash hold their shape beautifully, which makes them perfect vessels for a hearty filling.
Scoop out the seeds, then fill the cavity with rice, ground meat, quinoa, or a cheesy vegetable mix.
Bake at 375°F for about 30 minutes and you’ve got a satisfying meal that looks impressive on any table.
2. Turn Them Into Noodles or Ribbons
If you’re wondering what to do with large yellow summer squash that feels a little too seedy, spiralize it.
Large yellow summer squash make excellent noodles because you can peel away the seedy center and keep the firm outer flesh.
Toss those ribbons into a skillet with garlic and olive oil for a quick side dish.
You can also use them in place of pasta for a lighter, low-carb meal.
3. Grate Them for Breads and Fritters
Grating is a genius move when you’re figuring out what to do with large yellow summer squash.
Large yellow summer squash grate easily, and the extra moisture actually helps baked goods stay tender.
Squeeze out some of the liquid, then fold the shreds into quick breads, muffins, or savory fritters.
Your family won’t even guess there’s squash hiding in that moist, delicious loaf.
Best Recipes for Large Yellow Summer Squash
Once you know the techniques, the recipes for large yellow summer squash practically write themselves.
Here are some crowd-pleasers that make large yellow summer squash the star of the show.
1. Summer Squash Soup
Blending large yellow summer squash into a creamy soup is one of the coziest things you can do with them.
Sauté onions and garlic, add chopped large yellow summer squash and broth, then simmer until soft.
Blend it smooth and finish with a splash of cream or coconut milk for richness.
2. Grilled Summer Squash Planks
Grilling large yellow summer squash brings out a smoky sweetness that’s hard to beat.
Slice them lengthwise into thick planks, brush with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Grill for about four minutes per side and serve alongside anything off the barbecue.
3. Summer Squash Casserole
A cheesy summer squash casserole is a classic way to use up large yellow summer squash.
Layer sliced squash with onions, a creamy sauce, and a buttery cracker topping.
Bake until golden and bubbly, and watch it disappear at your next potluck.
4. Squash Pickles and Relish
If you’re still stuck on what to do with large yellow summer squash, try pickling them.
Large yellow summer squash take on brine beautifully and stay crunchy when sliced thick.
Pack them into jars with vinegar, sugar, and spices for a tangy condiment that lasts for months.
Tips for Cooking Large Yellow Summer Squash
A few smart tips make cooking large yellow summer squash much easier.
Large yellow summer squash have more water and bigger seeds, so a little prep goes a long way.
1. Scoop Out the Seeds
When your squash is bigger than a football, the seeds get tough and watery.
Cut the squash in half and use a spoon to scrape out the seedy center before cooking.
This one step instantly improves the texture of any dish you make with large yellow summer squash.
2. Salt and Drain
Sprinkle sliced large yellow summer squash with salt and let it sit for 15 minutes.
The salt pulls out excess moisture so your casseroles and fritters don’t turn soggy.
Pat dry before cooking and you’ll get a much better result every time.
3. Peel If the Skin Is Tough
Very large yellow summer squash sometimes develop a thick, tough skin.
If the skin feels hard, simply peel it off before cooking.
You’ll still keep all that tender flesh inside, which is the best part of any large yellow summer squash.
So, What to Do With Large Yellow Summer Squash?
What to do with large yellow summer squash comes down to a few simple ideas: stuff them, grill them, grate them, blend them, or pickle them.
Large yellow summer squash are far more versatile than most people give them credit for.
Whether you’re dealing with a bumper crop or a single giant from the garden, there’s a recipe here that fits.
Hopefully this post gave you plenty of inspiration for what to do with large yellow summer squash so nothing goes to waste.