Description
Crispy and flavorful Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is a simple and healthy side dish featuring thinly sliced yellow squash coated with garlic salt, black pepper, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make recipe highlights the natural sweetness of squash paired with savory cheese for a delightful snack or accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized yellow squash
- Garlic salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Place an oven rack in the center position and preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or cover it with foil lightly misted with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the squash: Wash and dry the yellow squash thoroughly. Cut each squash into ¼-inch thick slices to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.
- Arrange and season: Lay the squash rounds closely together on the prepared baking sheet, minimizing space between slices. Lightly sprinkle the slices with garlic salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Using a small spoon, spread a thin layer of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of each squash slice, covering them evenly.
- Bake the squash: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the Parmesan melts and turns a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning; if the cheese browns before 15 minutes, remove the pan early.
- Optional broil step: To achieve extra browning, you may broil the squash slices for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately as a delicious side dish or snack.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor quality.
- Keep an eye on the squash while baking to prevent over-browning or burning of the cheese.
- You can use foil or parchment paper on the baking sheet; just ensure it is lightly sprayed with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
- Broiling at the end is optional but helps achieve a crispier, golden finish.
- This recipe is easily doubled for larger servings.
- For a lower sodium version, reduce or omit the garlic salt and replace it with fresh garlic powder or herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
