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You can make a lot with zucchini and squash, and once you realize how versatile they are, you’ll never look at them the same way again.
Both zucchini and squash belong to the same family, and they can be used in everything from savory dinners to sweet baked goods.
If you’ve been wondering what can you make with zucchini and squash, the answer is honestly almost endless.
In this post, we’ll look at the best ways to cook with zucchini and squash, plus some creative ideas you might not have tried yet.
Let’s get into it.
What Can You Make With Zucchini and Squash?
What you can make with zucchini and squash really comes down to how you want to eat them.
You can roast them, grill them, bake them into bread, or even spiralize them into noodles.
The options are wide open, and that’s what makes these two so much fun to cook with.
1. Roasted Zucchini and Squash
Roasting is probably the easiest thing you can make with zucchini and squash.
Just slice them into rounds or half-moons, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder.
Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for about 20 to 25 minutes.
You’ll end up with tender, caramelized edges that taste amazing as a side dish.
2. Grilled Zucchini and Squash Skewers
If you want something with a little char and smokiness, grilling is the way to go.
Cut your zucchini and squash into thick chunks, thread them onto skewers, and brush with a simple marinade.
A mix of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully here.
Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, and you’ve got a summer side dish that disappears fast.
3. Zucchini and Squash Noodles
You can make zucchini and squash noodles with a spiralizer or a simple vegetable peeler.
These make a great low-carb swap for pasta, and they cook in just a couple of minutes.
Sauté them in a pan with garlic and olive oil, then top with your favorite sauce.
Just don’t overcook them, or they’ll turn mushy on you.
Creative Recipes Using Zucchini and Squash
Beyond the basics, there are plenty of creative recipes using zucchini and squash that you can try.
These ideas work great when you’ve got a bumper crop and don’t know what to do with it all.
1. Zucchini and Squash Bread
Zucchini bread is a classic, but you can also make it with squash, or a mix of both.
The result is a moist, slightly sweet loaf that pairs perfectly with coffee in the morning.
Grate your zucchini and squash, squeeze out the excess water, and fold it into a simple batter with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Bake it in a loaf pan, and you’ve got a treat that hides vegetables in the best possible way.
2. Zucchini and Squash Fritters
Fritters are another great option when you’re figuring out what to make with zucchini and squash.
Grate them, mix with flour, egg, cheese, and herbs, then pan-fry until golden brown.
They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect with a dollop of sour cream.
3. Stuffed Zucchini and Squash Boats
Stuffed boats are a fun and filling way to use up zucchini and squash.
Hollow out the centers, then fill them with a mix of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and cheese.
Bake until the squash is tender and the filling is bubbly and hot.
It’s a complete meal in one neat package.
4. Zucchini and Squash Soup
When the weather cools down, soup is a cozy way to enjoy zucchini and squash.
Cook them with onions, garlic, and broth, then blend until smooth.
A splash of cream or coconut milk at the end makes it rich and velvety.
Tips for Cooking With Zucchini and Squash
A few small tips can make a big difference when you cook with zucchini and squash.
First, always salt grated zucchini and squash and let them drain for about 15 minutes.
This removes extra moisture so your breads and fritters don’t turn out soggy.
Second, don’t peel them unless the skin is tough.
The skin holds a lot of nutrients and helps them keep their shape while cooking.
Third, season them well.
Zucchini and squash have a mild flavor, so they soak up whatever you add, whether it’s herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon.
And finally, don’t overcook them.
They’re at their best when they’re just tender, not falling apart.
So, What Can You Make With Zucchini and Squash?
You can make just about anything with zucchini and squash, from roasted sides and grilled skewers to breads, fritters, soups, and stuffed boats.
They’re versatile, easy to cook with, and work in both savory and sweet recipes.
So the next time you’re staring at a pile of zucchini and squash on your counter, don’t stress.
Pick a recipe, get cooking, and enjoy everything these two humble veggies have to offer.