If you’re on the lookout for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to prepare, this Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. It combines tender yellow squash with a crispy, salty parmesan crust, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving it alongside your weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish offers a fresh twist on a classic vegetable that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, offering a perfect harmony between savory, aromatic, and slightly nutty notes.
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds: Choose squash that’s firm and bright for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the squash roast to a golden tenderness and enhances the seasoning’s flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory punch without overpowering the delicate squash.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and deepens the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant medley of herbs that pairs perfectly with Parmesan.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle kick and sharpness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that crisps up beautifully, adding a rich, nutty crust.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note to finish.
How to Make Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Squash
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your squash doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. While the oven warms, slice your yellow squash into even 1/4-inch rounds so they cook evenly and develop a perfect tender texture.
Step 2: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine the sliced squash with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly so each slice is coated in this flavorful blend, which guarantees delicious seasoning in every bite.
Step 3: Arrange and Add Parmesan
Lay the squash slices out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This arrangement lets the squash roast evenly. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the top. This cheese will transform into a gorgeous golden crust that’s both crispy and savory—truly a highlight of this Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden and Tender
Place the baking sheet into the oven, roasting the squash for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the squash to become tender while the Parmesan crisps to a perfect golden brown. Keep an eye towards the end to avoid burning. For an extra special touch, you can broil the squash for the last 2 to 3 minutes to achieve even more crunch.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add brightness and a lovely pop of green. Serve this Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or even a light drizzle of lemon juice can brighten the dish wonderfully. If you want to go bolder, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes gives a subtle heat that complements the cheesy crust perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty grain salad. Its low-carb vegetable profile makes it a fantastic accompaniment for any meal that needs a splash of vibrant, cheesy comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Parmesan Roasted Squash layered on crostini with a smear of ricotta or mixed into a warm grain bowl for a flavorful boost. You can even chop the roasted squash and fold it into pasta or omelets to add a rich, cheesy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Parmesan Roasted Squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will retain much of its flavor and texture, making it a convenient, tasty option for lunch or dinner next day.
Freezing
While you can freeze roasted squash, keep in mind that the texture may soften upon thawing. If freezing, place cooled squash in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper between layers, and use within 1 to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
To reheat, use a 350°F oven and warm the squash for about 10 minutes. This method helps restore its crispiness better than microwaving, which tends to make the cheese soggy.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works wonderfully in this Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe and can even be mixed with yellow squash for added variety and color.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How crispy does the Parmesan get?
The Parmesan cheese crisps up nicely, forming a golden, slightly crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender squash beneath.
Can I add fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
You can, but since fresh garlic can burn quickly in the oven, it’s best to finely mince it and toss it with the squash right before roasting or sauté it lightly beforehand to mellow the flavor.
What’s the best way to slice the squash?
Slice the yellow squash into uniform 1/4-inch rounds to ensure even cooking and that perfect tender yet slightly firm texture every time.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe is an effortless way to add a burst of savory delight to any meal. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and irresistibly crispy cheese finish, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and fresh. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover just how delicious roasted squash can be!
Print
Parmesan Roasted Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Parmesan Roasted Squash is a simple and delicious side dish featuring tender yellow squash rounds coated in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs, then roasted to perfection with a crispy Parmesan topping. It’s a flavorful, low-carb, vegetarian, and gluten-free option that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Season Squash: In a large bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until every slice is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to allow even roasting and crisping.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the squash slices, which will melt and crisp up during roasting, adding a delicious golden crust.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the squash for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the Parmesan topping is golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, optionally broil for the last 2–3 minutes while watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve the roasted squash warm as a tasty side dish.
Notes
- Zucchini can be used instead of yellow squash or combined for added variety.
- For extra crispiness, broil the squash in the last 2–3 minutes of the cooking time.
