What to Serve with Squash: Perfect Side Dish Ideas for You

Originally posted on November 18, 2023 @ 6:55 am

Squash is a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be served in many ways. Whether you’re roasting, grilling, or sautéing it, squash makes an excellent addition to any meal. But what should you serve with it to make a complete and satisfying meal?

In this article, we’ll explore a variety of mouthwatering side dish ideas that pair perfectly with squash. From roasted and grilled squash to healthy and easy accompaniments, we’ve got you covered.

Key Takeaways

• There are many delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with squash.
• Roasting and grilling squash bring out its natural sweetness and add a delightful caramelized flavor.
• Healthy options, such as quinoa-stuffed delicata squash and roasted spaghetti squash with garlic and herbs, can complement your meal.
• Adding a touch of sweetness or spice to squash can take it to a whole new level.
• Combining squash with grains, cheese, and exotic flavors can create unique and flavorful dishes.

Tasty Roasted Squash Side Dishes

Roasting squash is an excellent way to bring out its natural sweetness and add a delightful caramelized flavor. These roasted squash side dishes are perfect for complementing your meal and showcasing the versatility of squash.

Recipe	Description
Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple Syrup	A deliciously sweet and savory dish that pairs perfectly with pork or chicken. The maple syrup brings out the natural sweetness of the butternut squash, while the salt and pepper give it a savory kick.
Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries	A healthier alternative to traditional potato fries, these zucchini fries are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor that perfectly complements the roasted zucchini.
Garlic and Herb Roasted Delicata Squash	A simple but flavorful dish that is ready in no time. The garlic and herb seasoning adds a fragrant aroma to the delicata squash, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.

These tasty roasted squash side dishes are not only delicious, but they are also easy to make. They are perfect for any occasion and are sure to leave your taste buds satisfied.

Grilled Squash Ideas

Grilling squash is an excellent way to enjoy its natural flavors and textures. Here are some easy grilled squash side dishes that are perfect for a BBQ or a weeknight meal.

Soy-Glazed Grilled Squash

This sweet and savory dish is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or seafood. Slice your favorite type of squash into rounds or spears and grill until slightly charred. Brush the squash with a mixture of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, and grill for an additional minute or two. Serve hot and garnish with sliced scallions for an extra pop of flavor.

Grilled Zucchini with Feta and Mint

This easy summer side dish is bursting with fresh flavors and textures. Cut zucchini into thin ribbons and grill until tender. Top with crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh mint, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish, or as a light vegetarian main dish.

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Squash

This tangy and sweet side dish is perfect for summer entertaining. Brush slices of squash with a mixture of balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and olive oil, and grill until caramelized. Serve hot as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, or as a topping for a grilled pizza.

Grilled Squash and Corn Salad

This colorful and flavorful salad is an excellent choice for summer parties or potlucks. Grill slices of summer squash and fresh corn until lightly charred, and toss with chopped cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Top with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Garlic and Herb Grilled Squash

This simple and delicious side dish is perfect for grilled chicken or steak. Slice squash into rounds or spears and toss with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and olive oil. Grill until tender and serve hot.

Try these delicious grilled squash ideas for your next BBQ or summer dinner party. They’re easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors and textures. Get creative and experiment with different types of squash and seasonings to find your perfect combination.

Healthy Sides for Squash

If you’re looking for nutritious options to serve with squash, we’ve got you covered. Here are some healthy side dish ideas to complement your meal:

Recipe	Description
Quinoa-Stuffed Delicata Squash	This dish is packed with protein and fiber, and the sweetness of delicata squash complements the nutty flavor of quinoa perfectly. Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast it in the oven. Meanwhile, cook quinoa, sauté some spinach, and mix it all together with some herbs and feta cheese. Stuff the squash with the quinoa mixture and bake until golden brown.
Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Garlic and Herbs	Spaghetti squash is a lower-carb alternative to pasta that still satisfies your cravings. Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast it in the oven. Then, sauté some garlic and herbs, and toss it with the spaghetti squash “noodles.” This dish is simple, flavorful, and healthy.
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash	This hearty side dish is loaded with nutrients and flavor. Toss Brussels sprouts and butternut squash cubes with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.

These healthy sides for squash are not only good for you but also delicious and easy to make. Try incorporating them into your next meal for a satisfying and nutritious treat.

Easy Squash Accompaniments

Squash is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. Sometimes, however, all you need is a simple and easy dish to complement the flavors of squash. Here are some quick and fuss-free squash accompaniments that you can prepare in no time:

• Sautéed Zucchini with Garlic and Lemon: Sauté sliced zucchini in some olive oil with minced garlic until tender. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and serve.
• Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash until tender, then blend it with some chicken broth and a splash of heavy cream. Serve hot.
• Roasted Delicata Squash Rings: Slice delicata squash into rings and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven until tender and sprinkle with fresh herbs.

These easy squash accompaniments are perfect for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, these dishes are sure to please.

Squash and Grain Pairings

Squash and grains make a perfect pairing. Both are nutrient-dense and full of fiber and protein. Combining them creates a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Here are some delicious squash and grain combinations for you to try:

Squash	Grain
Acorn Squash	Couscous
Butternut Squash	Wild Rice
Delicata Squash	Quinoa
Spaghetti Squash	Bulgur Wheat

These pairings are perfect for creating satisfying meals that are both nutritious and delicious. There are endless possibilities when it comes to combining squash and grains. Experiment with different varieties and flavors to find your favorite combinations.

One great recipe to try is couscous-stuffed acorn squash. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. Roast in the oven until tender. In the meantime, prepare a mixture of cooked couscous, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and a drizzle of olive oil. Scoop the couscous mixture into the roasted squash halves and bake for a few more minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!

• Squash and grains make a perfect pairing.
• Combining them creates a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy.
• Experiment with different varieties and flavors to find your favorite combinations.

“Squash and grains are a winning combination. They’re both versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from stews and casseroles to salads and side dishes.” – Chef John Doe

With these delicious squash and grain pairings, you’ll never run out of ideas for healthy and tasty sides for squash meals. Enjoy exploring the vast possibilities!

Savory Cheese and Squash Combinations

If you’re a cheese lover, you’ll be delighted to know that squash and cheese make a heavenly combination. The rich and creamy texture of cheese adds depth to the natural sweetness of squash, creating a deliciously satisfying dish. Here are some delectable cheese and squash pairings that are sure to impress your guests:

Squash	Cheese	Recipe
Butternut Squash	Goat Cheese	Roasted butternut squash with goat cheese and honey
Delicata Squash	Ricotta Cheese	Ricotta-stuffed delicata squash
Acorn Squash	Cheddar Cheese	Cheesy baked acorn squash

These dishes are perfect as a side dish or main course. The roasted and baked squash coupled with melted cheese is a match that will make your taste buds dance with joy. If you want to add a little crunch to these dishes, top them with some toasted nuts or breadcrumbs. Try these recipes for a delicious twist on traditional squash side dishes.

Exotic Flavors with Squash

If you’re tired of the same old squash recipes, why not try some exotic flavors inspired by different cuisines? These dishes will add a delicious twist to your meal and impress your guests.

Moroccan Spiced Roasted Squash

This dish combines the warm flavors of Moroccan spices with the sweetness of roasted squash. To make it, simply toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, cinnamon, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until caramelized and tender. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and chopped fresh parsley.

Thai Coconut Curry Butternut Squash

This fragrant and creamy curry is the perfect way to infuse squash with exotic Thai flavors. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in coconut oil until soft. Add cubed butternut squash and vegetable broth, and simmer until tender. Stir in red curry paste, coconut milk, and fish sauce, and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Serve over rice and garnish with chopped cilantro and peanuts.

Southwestern Stuffed Acorn Squash

Ingredients	Directions
2 acorn squash 1 can black beans, drained 1/2 cup cooked quinoa 1/2 cup corn kernels 1/2 cup salsa 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 tablespoon chili powder Salt and pepper to taste	Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. In a bowl, mix together the black beans, quinoa, corn, salsa, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stuff each squash half with the mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

This dish combines the sweetness of acorn squash with the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with protein and fiber.

These exotic squash recipes are just a few examples of the endless possibilities when it comes to pairing squash with international flavors. Explore different cuisines and spice up your meals with these delicious squash meal ideas.

Tasty Squash Dishes Infused with Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs bring a pop of flavor and delightful aroma to any dish, and squash is no exception. In this section, we’ll explore a variety of tasty squash dishes infused with aromatic herbs that will tantalize your taste buds!

Rosemary Roasted Delicata Squash

If you’re looking for a simple but flavorful dish to serve with squash, try this rosemary roasted delicata squash recipe. Cut the squash into rings, toss with fresh rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. Serve as a side dish or add it to your favorite salad for an extra punch of flavor.

Dill and Feta Stuffed Zucchini

If you’re looking for a creative way to serve zucchini, try this dill and feta stuffed zucchini recipe. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Mix together feta cheese, fresh dill, garlic, and breadcrumbs, and fill the zucchini halves with the mixture. Bake in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, and enjoy this savory and delicious dish!

Herb-Roasted Butternut Squash

This herb-roasted butternut squash is the perfect side dish for any meal. Toss the cubed squash with fresh herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized. The combination of thyme, rosemary, and sage will infuse the squash with aromatic flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more!

Easy Squash Accompaniments

Not every meal needs to be complicated, sometimes simplicity is key. If you’re in the mood for an easy and fuss-free squash side dish, then this section is for you. These dishes are quick to put together and can be paired with a variety of meals. Let’s take a look.

Simple Zucchini Salad

This salad is light, refreshing, and a perfect accompaniment to any dish. Simply slice some zucchini into thin rounds and toss them in a bowl with extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld, and you’re good to go. For an extra pop of color and flavor, add some cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, or crumbled feta cheese.

Garlic Roasted Squash

This roasted squash recipe is a classic side dish that never fails to impress. Cut your squash into small cubes or slices, toss them with garlic-infused oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized. This dish is incredibly versatile and works well with any kind of squash, from butternut to acorn to spaghetti squash. Serve it alongside your favorite protein for a complete meal.

Roasted Squash Mash

If you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, this roasted squash mash is perfect. Roast your squash until it’s soft and tender, then mash it with some butter, cream, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, you can also add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. This dish is a great alternative to mashed potatoes and is perfect for a cozy night in.

Creamy Squash Soup

When the weather starts to get chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort you. This creamy squash soup is easy to make and incredibly delicious. Simply roast your squash in the oven until it’s soft and caramelized, then blend it with some vegetable broth, cream, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Serve it with some crusty bread for a perfect meal.

Sautéed Squash and Onions

This sautéed squash and onions recipe is a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with any meal. Simply slice your squash and onions into thin rounds, sauté them in a pan with some olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.

These easy squash accompaniments are perfect for when you want a simple and delicious side dish that doesn’t require a lot of effort. Whether you’re in the mood for a light salad, a warm soup, or roasted squash, these dishes are sure to satisfy. Happy cooking!

Conclusion

We hope this article has given you some fantastic ideas on what to serve with squash. Whether you’re looking for healthy options, grilled or roasted squash accompaniments, or simply delicious dishes to complement your meal, we’ve got you covered. With so many mouthwatering side dish ideas, you’ll be able to create satisfying and memorable meals that will impress your guests.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and combinations. The versatility of squash allows for endless possibilities in the kitchen. From savory cheese and squash pairings to exotic flavors inspired by different cuisines, the options are limitless.

So go ahead and enjoy exploring the delicious world of squash. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these side dish ideas are sure to make your meal even more delightful. Happy cooking!