Grilled Yellow Squash

If you aren't grilling summer squash, it's time to start. This versatile vegetable comes out sweet, smoky, and delicious on the grill. Throw it on the grill with some grilled zucchini, grilled eggplant, or grilled onions for a delicious grilled vegetable feast.

It's almost a given that every summer, the requests for yellow squash and zucchini begin to pour in. Everyone seems to have a garden or neighbor's garden that is overflowing with this tasty summer vegetable. And while you can definitely use it for more complicated recipes, the first thing I am doing is throwing it on the grill. It is such a yummy side dish along with something like this Pesto Chicken or Grilled Salmon. Then we get to the leftovers, my favorite part.

There are literally hundreds of ways to use leftover grilled summer squash. Throw it in your morning eggs, make a delicious grilled veggie sandwich with feta and olive spread, toss it into a pasta salad, make a quinoa bowl with grilled squash, rotisserie chicken, and your favorite dressing. I am telling you, this stuff is addictive and once you start grilling it, you will never turn back.

It's also a blank canvas when it comes to flavor. It works with virtually any spices, fresh herbs, citrus, or cheese you like. Toss it with some fresh basil, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Add some Cajun seasoning for something spicy. Add Greek seasoning and feta cheese. Get creative and experiment with all the different ways you can serve grilled squash.

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 then 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 with their hands.
• Rounds: For large yellow squash, you can cut them into coins or rounds. Simply cut into circular pieces about 1/2-3/4 inch thick. You can cut 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.

How Long to Grill Summer Squash

Summer squash takes 7-10 minutes on the grill, depending on the thickness. Assuming you cut the squash to 1/2-3/4 inch thick and cook the squash over medium high heat, it will likely take 3-4 minutes per side. It is ready to flip when it easily releases from the grill and has nice, browned grill marks. If it is stuck to the grill, it isn't ready to flip. Try not to overcook the squash to the point of mush. It should still have some texture and bite.

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 so good on vegetables. You need to try it!
• Fresh Herb Vinaigrette: If you really want to take things up a notch, make a quick herb vinaigrette with olive oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs. Drizzle this on top for the best summer side dish.
• 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 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.

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 is that 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, 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.