Description
This sautéed yellow squash recipe features tender, herb-flecked squash rounds topped with a crispy, nutty panko and vegan Parmesan topping. Perfect as a light summer side dish, it balances soft textures with a flavorful crunch and vibrant herb oil.
Ingredients
Squash
- 3 yellow squash
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Fresh basil and thyme, for garnish (optional)
Herb Oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread Crumb Topping
- ¼ cup panko bread crumbs
- ¼ cup vegan Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Red pepper flakes, optional pinch
Instructions
- Prepare the squash: Slice the squash into ¼-inch rounds. If the squash is large, cut the rounds into half-moons to ensure even cooking.
- Make the herb oil: In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, grated garlic, finely chopped parsley, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Shake well to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs, vegan Parmesan, chopped fresh parsley, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you desire a slight kick of heat.
- Sauté the squash: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Add the sliced squash and sauté for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the squash becomes soft yet retains a firm bite and before it turns watery or mushy.
- Toss and serve: Remove the cooked squash from the skillet and toss with the prepared herb oil to coat evenly. Top with the crunchy panko mixture and garnish with fresh basil and thyme, if using. Serve warm as a flavorful summer side dish.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor in the herb oil and topping.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for no heat.
- To keep the squash from becoming watery, sauté over medium heat and stir gently.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a vegan meal.
- Vegan Parmesan can be substituted with regular Parmesan if not strictly vegan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
