Grilled Yellow Squash

I am a sucker for tossing veggies on the grill to ramp up their flavor! You can grill pretty much any veggie, like grilled zucchini, grilled eggplant, or grilled onions! This Grilled Summer Squash recipe is no different.

You can really get creative with grilling summer squash by adding fresh herbs, cheese, seasonings, or whatever you like! And if you have leftovers, you can use them up in salads, bowls, or simply reheated to enjoy again.

How to Cut Summer Squash for the Grill

When it comes to preparing your squash for the grill, you have a few different options depending on how you plan to grill it and use it.

• Horizontal planks: This is my preferred method for cutting yellow squash for the grill. Simply slice the squash lengthwise into long 1/2-3/4 inch thick planks. Thinner than that, and they will fall apart. The genius of using planks is that they won't fall through the grill grates and are easy to flip. You can always chop them into smaller pieces when they come off the grill if needed.
• Wedges: Another good option for the grill is cutting the summer squash into long wedges. Start by cutting the squash in half lengthwise. Then slice each half in half again and then into quarters. These can go right onto the grill and also won't easily fall through the grates. My kids like this option since I can cut them down into "fries." After that, they can grab them with their hands.
• Rounds: You can cut large yellow squash into coins or rounds. Simply cut into circular pieces about 1/2-3/4 inch thick. You can cut it straight down or at a diagonal for a slightly larger piece.
• Chopped: If you plan on using a grill basket or foil, you can chop the squash into smaller pieces - either half moons or smaller chopped chunks.

Recipe Ideas for Grilled Yellow Squash

This is where the fun starts! There are so many different ways you can flavor your summer squash to make it something really special. Think about this recipe as your jumping-off point.

• Garlic parmesan: This is a classic combination for a reason. While the squash is on the grill, melt together one tablespoon of butter or olive oil with a minced garlic clove in the microwave. It will take about one minute, and it is ready when the garlic is fragrant and slightly soft. Then, when the squash comes off the grill, pour the garlic butter on top and add fresh Parmesan cheese. You can add some chopped basil or parsley as well. So good.
• Cajun: For something spicy, grab your favorite Cajun seasoning and toss it with the squash before throwing it on the grill.
• Old Bay: Another easy option is Old Bay. Although it is typically used on seafood, it is so good on vegetables. You need to try it!
• Fresh herb vinaigrette: You can make this balsamic marinade for grilled vegetables to toss with the squash after they're done grilling for a bright, herby flavor!
• Balsamic glaze: I have a slight obsession with balsamic glaze. You can make it yourself by reducing balsamic vinegar on the stove or take the easy route and buy one. Drizzle on top of the grilled veggies - delish.
• Lemon feta: Toss your yellow squash with a Greek seasoning mix before grilling. Then add fresh lemon juice and feta cheese when it comes off the grill.
• Ranch: Grab a packet of ranch seasoning and toss the squash with the seasoning mix before grilling. Kids love this option.
• Grab some dressing: For a super easy option, grab a bottle of your favorite salad dressing and simply drizzle some on top before serving. You could also marinate the squash before grilling, but I find it works just as well if you add it on top while the squash is still warm. Squash is porous and will soak up the flavors.
• Heat: For a little bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the squash once they come off the grill.

How to Grill Yellow Squash in Foil

There is a final option when it comes to grilling summer squash, and that is in a foil pouch. Two things to note about cooking it this way. First, your squash will come out softer and lightly steamed. It will have some grilled flavor, but not as much as it would if you grilled it on the grill directly or in a grill basket. However, one benefit to cooking it this way is that it is a great way to add extra veggies. Throw in some diced onions, tomatoes, zucchini, asparagus, or whatever you like, as long as it cooks quickly. Wrap it up in a foil pouch with some olive oil and seasoning, and you will have a delicious veggie medley.

What if I don't have a grill?

If you don't have a grill, you can cook the squash in a skillet on the stovetop or on a grill pan! The grill pan will give you those nice grill marks, but you won't have that same smoky flavor.

What to Serve with Grilled Yellow Squash

This grilled squash goes with pretty much anything you like! Here are some of my favorites:

• Grilled meats: Pair the squash with a side of Garlic Grilled Shrimp, Grilled Chicken Margherita, or Grilled Salmon with Cajun Seasoning.
• Salad: Toss the squash onto a bed of arugula with other grilled veggies and balsamic dressing to make a Grilled Vegetable Salad!
• Grain bowls: Grab some grains, grilled chicken, your favorite toppings, grilled squash, and make these Grilled Chicken Bowls!
• Burgers: Grill up a Jalapeno Cheddar Burger or Cowboy Turkey Burger to pair with summer squash.

Storing and Reheating Grilled Summer Squash

Make sure to properly store and reheat your summer squash so you can enjoy it for days! Here's how to do it:

• Storage: Store leftover grilled squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the squash in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until it crisps up again. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the squash may become mushy!
• Leftover ideas: Toss some leftover squash with eggs and make a morning Veggie Scramble with Avocado! For a light lunch, consider making a Vegetable Pasta Salad with your favorite pasta and the leftover squash.