Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This pan-fried squash recipe is the perfect addition to any meal. It’s incredibly versatile, adaptable to your spice preferences, and delivers a delightful mix of sweet and savory notes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It's one of those easy recipes that elevates a simple dinner into something truly special. This recipe is also a great example of homemade cooking at its best!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (or your favorite winter squash), peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch pieces (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
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Prep the Squash: Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash. Make sure the cubes are relatively uniform in size for even cooking. If you’re using a different type of squash, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Some squash varieties will cook faster than others.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sage and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. This step releases the amazing flavor of the sage and infuses the oil, making your squash incredibly flavorful.
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Cook the Squash: Add the cubed squash to the skillet and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to coat the squash evenly with the oil and spices.
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Pan-Fry to Perfection: Cook the squash for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's tender and slightly caramelized. You should see some beautiful browning on the edges of the squash—this is where the magic happens. If using butter, add it to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for extra richness and flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the squash is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Tips for Pan-Fried Squash Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of squash, it’s better to cook it in batches. Overcrowding the pan will steam the squash instead of pan-frying it, resulting in a less desirable texture.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time will depend on the type and size of the squash cubes. Smaller cubes will cook faster. Check for tenderness with a fork. It should easily pierce the squash.
- Get creative with spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs. Rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Maple-Glazed Squash: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory twist.
- Roasted Squash: For a different texture, roast the squash in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of pan-frying it.
- Spicy Squash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 4-6g
- Protein: 2-3g
This pan-fried squash recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are easy to make. It’s a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, offering a delightful and nutritious side to any meal. Enjoy!