This easy garlic roasted yellow squash is a tasty side dish that brings out the vegetable’s natural sweetness. Just slice, toss with garlic, and roast until golden!
I love how this dish fills my kitchen with a wonderful garlic scent. Plus, it’s a great way to get in those veggies without any fuss. Who knew healthy could be so easy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! You’re looking for medium-sized yellow squash that feel firm to the touch. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini makes a great substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor in this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove of fresh garlic.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for roasting. However, any cooking oil like avocado oil or vegetable oil will also work fine if you want something different.
Fresh Parsley: This is optional but adds a nice pop of color and freshness. Feel free to swap with other herbs like basil or thyme if you prefer.
How Do I Get the Squash Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting squash is simple, but to get that perfect golden color and tenderness, follow these steps:
- Ensure the squash slices are uniform in thickness (1/4-inch) for even cooking.
- Spread the slices out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Keep an eye on them while roasting. If they start browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly. Aim for around 15-20 minutes total cooking time.
Easy Garlic Roasted Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium yellow squash
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy garlic roasted yellow squash recipe will take you about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for roasting. So, you can have this flavorful side dish ready in 30 minutes or less!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your squash roasts perfectly.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash thoroughly and cut off both ends. Then, slice the squash into even 1/4-inch thick rounds. This helps them cook uniformly!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced squash, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together, making sure the squash is well coated.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the squash slices out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they roast nicely.
5. Roast the Squash:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. Look for the squash to become tender and slightly golden. You might want to check halfway through and give them a stir for even roasting!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven. Transfer it to a serving dish and, if you’d like, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a beautiful finish.
7. Enjoy Your Dish:
Serve warm as a tasty and healthy side dish! It pairs well with all sorts of main courses.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is the focus here, you can use zucchini, eggplant, or even bell peppers as tasty alternatives. Just adjust slicing times as needed based on the vegetable’s cooking duration.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can use garlic powder instead. For every clove of garlic, use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder. Just add it to the oil with the salt and pepper before mixing with the squash.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roasted squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy them as a quick side for your next meal!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the squash and toss it with the garlic and oil ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. When you’re ready, roast them in the oven as directed for a fresh and quick side dish!
