Harvested while still immature, what makes the summer squash so delicious is that the rind is tender and edible. This warm-season vegetable is grown throughout the U.S., and the number of varieties are many, with the most popular being crookneck squash, zucchini, and pattypan.
It has a tender flesh that requires only a short cooking time. They are very low in calories, high in vitamin C and high in fiber. Summer squash can be prepared in several ways, such as steamed, baked, sautéed and deep-fat fried
Summer squash is quite versatile. It can be eaten raw on its own as an appetizer, then added to sandwiches and salads. Some summer squash, such as zucchini, are delicious when grated and added to breads, cakes and muffins. Use it in stews, casseroles, and soups, or stuff it and set it out on the grill.
Summer squash availability peaks in early summer to late summer.
Here is a satisfying recipe that highlights the delightful flavor of summer squash.
Summer Squash Risotto with Crispy Fried Sage and Parmesan
- 4 summer squash
- 4 zucchini
- 6 pattypan squash
- 1 large onion, sliced
- ¼ bunch fresh thyme sprigs ( 4 sprigs), leaves only
- extra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Risotto
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 bunch fresh sage springs, leaves only
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cups Arborio rice
- ½ 750-milliliter bottle dry white wine
- 2 quarts reduced-sodium vegetable broth
- ½ stick unsalted butter, cuts into thirds
- 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cut squash, zucchini, and pattypan squash into circles and slice onion. Set out on a roasting tray and scatter thyme leaves over the top. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.
While the vegetables roast, start the risotto. Set a large heavy-based pot over medium heat. Pour a 3-count of oil (about 3 tablespoons) into the pot and fry the sage leaves until they are crispy and crackly. Drain the leaves on paper towels and set aside. Add onion to the pot and sauté until fragrant and slightly translucent. Add rice and cook for 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat as you stir with a wooden spoon. Add the wine; cook until mostly evaporated. Begin adding vegetable broth each time before adding more. Continue to do this until the rice is tender but still has a little bite. (Add water, if necessary, if you use all the vegetable broth before the rice is done). To finish, add butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Source: Dinner at My Place, Tyler Florence, Meredith Books
