Not Bored with the Gourd: 10 Squash Recipes to Cook this Summer

June is here so it’s time to start thinking about new summer squash recipes! The main difference between summer and winter squash is that you can eat every part of the summer squash. The most commonly used varieties are Yellow, Zucchini and Pattypan. Each has its own special flavor and texture but they’re all a delicious addition to any summer meal.

Anyone watching her waistline will appreciate that summer squash (especially yellow) is very low-cal but it’s hearty texture and high fiber make it totally satisfying. This delicious veggie is also a fantastic source of potassium, magnesium, copper, vitamin C and folate. Eat the skin and seeds to take full advantage of their antioxidant power.

Here are 10 summer squash recipes that will make you rethink how to cook squash.

Taco Stuffed Summer Squash Boats
Tacos? Love ’em! Summer squash? Awesome! Summer squash tacos? Yes, please! This simple dish is a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies without even realizing it. They make a filling, healthy snack or a light meal.

Read Related: Squash on the Rise: 8 Chayote Squash Recipes to Get On Now

Summer Squash Frittata
You can make this scrumptious frittata for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It’s got everything you need to power through your day: eggs for protein and squash for vitamins and minerals. Perfect when you want a light meal.

Hash Brown Recipe with Summer Squash & Zucchini
This is an inexpensive, healthy and easy breakfast option. It’s also another excellent way to hide veggies in a tempting package for picky eaters. We especially love the idea of cooking the hash browns in a waffle iron.

Summer Squash with Turmeric Butter
Now this is how to cook squash! It’s a simple side-dish that’s loaded with subtly blended flavors. Turmeric and cilantro give it some kick, while honey and nuts add just the right touch of sweetness and crunch.

Pizza Bites
Looking for a gluten-free, no carb summer appetizer? Zucchini pizza bites are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. There’s spaghetti sauce and pepperoni for meat lovers or pesto and grape tomato for the vegetarians, then top with shredded mozzarella and enjoy.

Savory Summer Squash Quick Bread
Just reading the recipe got our mouths watering for this savory quick bread. Made with feta and flavored with oregano, it’s a hearty loaf for snacks or served with dinner.

Lucky Squash Burgers
These Lucky Squash Burgers are the perfect option for any vegetarians you’re inviting to your next barbecue. They’re also a great low-carb and gluten-free (if you don’t eat them with a bun) option. Rice and squash give these burgers heft, while hot salsa brings a little heat.

Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Chips
How can such a little bite cover so much ground? Zucchini chips are a much healthier alternative to the corn or potato variety. Kids will love them and so will your diet.

Pickled Baby Pattypan Squash
No list of squash recipes is complete without giving a nod to the pattypan. Those are the top-shaped squash with scalloped edges and the baby ones are beyond adorable. A jar of these makes a lovely table centerpiece and an awesome side for your cookout.

Low-Carb Summer Squash Salsa
When you’re looking for a special summer (squash) salsa, the light flavors in this low-carb option make the perfect topping for fish, burgers, chips, you name it. Plus cantaloupe and yellow squash are packed with betacarotene.

Photo 3 courtesy of Food Network.com