Stuffed patty pan squash is a delightful and visually appealing dish perfect for showcasing the natural beauty and flavor of summer squash. These cute, flying-saucer-shaped squashes are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, grains, and cheese, creating a hearty yet light meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main course, this dish is versatile enough to adapt to any ingredients you have on hand. It’s a great way to highlight seasonal produce while offering a comforting, warm meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium patty pan squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Squash: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the tops of the patty pan squash and scoop out the flesh, leaving about a ¼-inch border. Reserve the flesh for the filling. Lightly drizzle the hollowed-out squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes. Chop the reserved squash flesh and add it to the skillet. Cook for another 3 minutes until tender.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked quinoa or rice, cherry tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese.
- Stuff the Squash: Fill each patty pan squash with the vegetable and grain mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Enjoy your stuffed patty pan squash as a satisfying vegetarian dish or pair it with your favorite protein for a balanced meal!
