Summer squash may be one of nature's most underappreciated vegetables. It can taste bright and refreshing, but a surplus always seem to be lurking in our fridges. (Don't even get us started on the absurd amount a single plant seems to produce.) Whether it's zucchini, Summer squash, or the prima donna of the trio — squash blossom (OK, we've never met someone with too many of these) — there are plenty of simple yet mouthwatering ways to prepare this farmers-market gem.
Sources: Nicole Perry, Anna Monette Roberts, Matkonation [1]
Rustic Vegetable Galette
This rustic zucchini, tomato, and sheep's-milk cheese galette [2] pairs the richness of a pie with the simplicity of a flatbread. Its buttery crust is balanced by a generous helping of fresh veggies and the cheese's tang for an exceptionally well-rounded dish.
Source: Matkonation [3]
Zucchini With Basil, Pine Nuts, and Croutons
When you have great ingredients, sometimes a simple preparation is best. This recipe for zucchini with basil, pine nuts, and croutons [4] is fast, easy to make, and full of flavor.
Source: Not Derby Pie [5]
Breakfast Tacos With Zucchini and Squash
Start your morning on a high note with a plateful of zucchini and squash breakfast tacos [6]. These bites of egg and veggies will help you feel energized all day long.
Source: Cookie + Kate [7]
Stuffed Squash Blossoms
Stuff delicate squash blossoms with burrata [8] and serve them with olive tapenade for a fabulous warm-weather appetizer or picnic snack. The ridiculously creamy cheese and tangy tapenade bring boldness to these beautiful blooms.
Photo: Nicole Perry
Mediterranean Quiche
Quiche isn't just for brunch; this Mediterranean stunner [9] stuffed with onions, zucchini, red peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes is great any time of day.
Photo: Anna Monette Roberts
Zucchini Noodle Egg Drop Soup
For a summery take on egg drop soup [10], add zoodles, aka zucchini noodles.
Source: Snixy Kitchen [11]
Squash Casserole
This cheesy squash casserole [12] perfectly bridges the seasonal shift from Summer to Fall.
Photo: Anna Monette Roberts
Baked Zucchini Fries
Skip French fries and whip up a batch of these irresistible zucchini fries [13] instead. Paired with a zesty buttermilk ranch dip, this oven-baked appetizer is a crowd-pleaser.
Photo: Lauren Hendrickson
Zucchini Pesto
This versatile zucchini pesto [14] is a great topping for pasta, crostini, or simply devouring by the spoonful when no one else is watching.
Photo: Anna Monette Roberts
Squash Blossom Soup
Bursting with the bright flavor of Summer vegetables, this squash blossom soup [15] is a great way to combine the fresh produce you have on hand. The light and savory dish, with a little kick thanks to jalapeño, is a soup that will leave you feeling refreshed.
White Bean Ratatouille
On a night when you're craving a hearty meal that's simple and healthy, whip up a batch of white bean ratatouille [16]. This one-pot recipe combines robust tomatoes and garlic with milder vegetables like zucchini, squash, and eggplant.