15 Yummy Summer Squash Recipes Of 2025
Summer squash is the ultimate vegetable for warm-weather cooking. With its mild, sweet flavor and versatility, it’s perfect for a wide range of dishes, from savory sides to light mains and even delicious baked goods.
Whether you’re harvesting from your garden or picking up fresh squash at the local farmers’ market, you’ll want to make the most of this seasonal produce while it’s at its peak.
In this post, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best summer squash recipes that showcase the full potential of this veggie. From simple grilled dishes and crispy fritters to hearty casseroles and savory tarts, there’s something for everyone.
These recipes highlight the natural sweetness of yellow squash and zucchini, transforming them into meals that are both healthy and satisfying.
So if you’re looking to add more summer squash to your plate or just need fresh ideas for your next meal, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Check out these 15 summer squash recipes that will elevate your seasonal cooking!
1. Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful side dish to complement your summer meals, air fryer zucchini and squash are a must-try. They’re light, tasty, and pair beautifully with anything you’re grilling up—whether that’s juicy burgers, marinated chicken, or veggie skewers.
What makes this summer squash recipe even better is how simple it is to prepare. Just slice up some fresh zucchini and yellow squash, toss them in a little seasoning, and let the air fryer do the rest. In just minutes, you’ll have a golden, slightly crispy side dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for warm-weather dining.
The beauty of air frying is that it keeps things light while still delivering that delicious roasted taste. This dish is easy enough to whip up for a busy weeknight dinner, but also special enough to serve when hosting friends for a backyard BBQ.
Summer squash like zucchini and yellow squash are incredibly versatile, and this recipe proves just how effortless it is to turn them into something crave-worthy.
2. Pan Fried Yellow Squash
Pan-fried yellow squash is a simple yet flavorful side dish that will quickly become a favorite. With the perfect combination of butter and herbs, this dish boasts tender, savory slices with a satisfying crispy edge. While it’s often associated with summer, thanks to its fresh, light taste, you can enjoy this easy recipe year-round as yellow squash is readily available in most grocery stores.
The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of textures—the soft, buttery inside contrasts beautifully with the slightly caramelized, crispy edges, creating a delightful bite every time. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, pasta, or as part of a veggie spread, pan-fried yellow squash adds a burst of flavor and color to any meal. It’s an uncomplicated way to bring some seasonal sunshine to your table, no matter the time of year.
3. Vegan Southern Squash Casserole
This Vegan Southern Squash Casserole brings all the comfort and flavor of the traditional recipe without any dairy or gluten. Made with fresh, seasonal yellow squash, it’s topped with a creamy, plant-based sauce and finished with a crunchy, buttery gluten-free cracker topping that adds the perfect texture. It’s a fantastic allergy-friendly dish to serve at potlucks, holiday meals, or any gathering where you want to impress a crowd with something both comforting and inclusive.
With just eight simple ingredients, this casserole is easy to put together, making it a great go-to side dish for busy days. The combination of creamy squash and crispy topping is both savory and satisfying, offering a fresh twist on a Southern classic that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a large group or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
4. Summer Squash Rice
Summer squash rice is a quick and flavorful side dish that brings together tender veggies and fluffy rice in a perfect blend. The summer squash adds a subtle sweetness and a pop of color, making this dish as tasty as it is vibrant. It’s an effortless way to elevate your meals with fresh ingredients, and the combination of tender squash and seasoned rice offers a satisfying texture and taste.
This dish is not only simple to make but also versatile, pairing well with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or a hearty salad, summer squash rice makes for an ideal addition to any meal. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal squash while keeping your side dish light and flavorful.
5. Roasted Summer Squash
Roasted summer squash is a breeze to make and packs loads of flavor! Simply slice the squash into rounds, season them to perfection, and finish with a crunchy, golden crumb topping that adds a delightful texture. The oven does all the work, turning the squash into a tender, savory side dish with a crispy finish that’s hard to resist.
This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of the squash while giving it a crispy, flavorful edge. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal, whether you’re roasting it alongside a grilled protein or serving it at a summer BBQ. The simple ingredients and easy preparation make roasted summer squash a go-to choice for quick, tasty sides.
6. Zucchini & Squash Casserole Recipe
This zucchini and squash casserole is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy summer squash, especially when you’re craving something comforting yet light. Layers of zucchini and yellow squash are baked until tender and golden, topped with a crispy blend of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs that adds just the right amount of crunch.
It’s the kind of dish that fits right in at summer gatherings, from backyard picnics to potluck dinners. But it’s also elegant enough to serve during the holidays as a flavorful side that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward prep, this casserole is a reliable go-to when you want to showcase summer squash in a way that feels both wholesome and satisfying.
Whether you’re looking to use up garden-fresh squash or just want an easy side that looks as good as it tastes, this oven-baked casserole checks all the boxes—healthy, hearty, and totally crowd-pleasing.
7. The Best Squash Casserole
This Southern-style squash casserole is pure comfort in every bite. Made with tender yellow squash, sautéed onions, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese, it’s finished off with a buttery cracker topping that adds the perfect crunch. It’s everything you love about traditional squash casserole—rich, savory, and full of flavor—without relying on condensed soup.
This dish brings out the best in yellow squash, creating a warm, hearty side that’s ideal for family dinners, holiday spreads, or potluck gatherings. The creamy filling and crisp topping strike a perfect balance, making each bite irresistible.
If you’re looking for a summer squash recipe that feels nostalgic and homey, this casserole is a must. It’s easy to prep, full of comforting flavors, and sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation of go-to sides.
8. Zucchini & Yellow Squash Gratin
Zucchini and Yellow Squash Gratin is a deliciously creamy and cheesy side dish that brings out the best in summer squash. Thinly sliced squash is layered and baked with a rich, savory sauce, then topped with a golden, bubbly crust that makes every bite indulgent and satisfying.
This gratin is incredibly versatile—it pairs beautifully with everything from roasted chicken to grilled seafood, making it an easy choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The tender squash melts into the cheesy goodness, creating a dish that feels both elegant and comforting.
If you’re looking to elevate your summer squash recipes, this gratin is a standout option. It’s simple to prepare, loaded with flavor, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to have it on their plate.
9. Yellow Squash and Tomato Gratin with Two Cheeses
Yellow Squash and Tomato Gratin with Two Cheeses is a beautiful way to celebrate the flavors of late summer. Juicy tomatoes and tender yellow squash are layered together, then baked with a generous helping of cheese that melts into every bite. The result is a comforting, savory dish that feels both fresh and indulgent.
This gratin makes a wonderful side for roasted meats or poultry, adding a colorful and flavorful touch to any meal. But it’s also hearty enough to stand on its own as a vegetarian main dish, especially when served with a simple salad or some crusty bread.
The combination of squash, tomatoes, and melty cheese creates a rich, rustic flavor that’s hard to resist. If you’re looking for a standout summer squash recipe that feels a little elevated but still easy to make, this dish is a perfect pick.
10. Yellow Summer Squash Bread
This yellow squash bread is a cozy, flavorful quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. It’s moist, tender, and just sweet enough, thanks to a mix of white and brown sugar paired with the warmth of cinnamon. What really sets it apart is a secret ingredient that adds a subtle tang and keeps the bread incredibly soft and rich.
It’s a great way to use up extra summer squash and sneak some veggies into a sweet treat. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a little butter, this bread is the kind of recipe that feels homey and comforting—perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a fun twist on traditional quick bread and a lovely addition to your summer squash recipe collection.
11. Summer Vegetable Soup with Yellow Squash and Zucchini
This summer vegetable soup is a light, nourishing bowl of goodness that showcases the best of the season. Packed with zucchini, yellow squash, and a medley of fresh veggies, it’s the kind of comforting yet vibrant dish that feels just right during warm weather.
The zucchini and squash add a tender texture and subtle sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory broth and other vegetables. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, veggie-filled meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a starter, or pairing it with crusty bread for a simple dinner, this soup is a delicious way to make the most of your summer squash. It’s wholesome, easy to prepare, and perfect for enjoying garden-fresh ingredients all season long.
12. Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Grilled zucchini and squash are a summer staple, and this easy recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat all season long. With just a simple garlic and olive oil marinade, these veggies turn out tender, smoky, and full of flavor—no fuss required.
The beauty of this summer squash recipe is how quickly it comes together. A few minutes on the grill is all it takes to bring out the natural sweetness and give the veggies those beautiful char marks. It’s the perfect side dish for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re firing up the grill.
Whether you’re pairing it with burgers, grilled chicken, or enjoying it as a light vegetarian option, this recipe is a no-brainer. Fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy—it’s everything you want in a summer squash dish.
13. One-Bowl Lemon Blueberry Yellow Squash Muffins
These one-bowl lemon blueberry yellow squash muffins are a fresh and delightful twist on classic zucchini bread—with yellow squash stepping in for an extra sunny vibe. Bursting with bright lemon flavor and juicy blueberries, these muffins are soft, tender, and incredibly moist, thanks to the hidden gem: shredded summer squash.
Don’t let the squash surprise you—it blends right in, adding subtle texture and tons of moisture without overpowering the sweet, citrusy flavor. They’re the perfect grab-and-go treat for busy mornings, lazy brunches, or an afternoon snack with a cup of tea.
Made all in one bowl, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. If you’re looking for a fun, creative way to use up summer squash, these muffins are a must-try. They’re light, flavorful, and have that melt-in-your-mouth quality that keeps you reaching for just one more.
14. Yellow Squash Tots with Garlicky Yogurt Dip
If you’re in the mood for a fun and creative way to enjoy summer squash, these yellow squash tots are an absolute winner. These bite-sized veggie snacks are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and totally addictive. Whether you’re using yellow squash, zucchini, or a mix of both, this recipe is a clever (and delicious) way to put that summer produce to good use.
Grated squash is the star here—bound together with a few simple ingredients to form golden, snackable tots that are perfect for dipping, snacking, or even packing in lunchboxes. They’re a fun twist on traditional tater tots and a sneaky way to get more veggies into your day.
These little gems are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and super versatile. Serve them as a side, an appetizer, or just munch on them fresh out of the oven—they’re that good. And yes, they really are a grate way to use up summer squash!
15. Grilled Summer Squash Pizza
Grilled Summer Squash Pizza is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy a lighter take on pizza night. Loaded with zucchini, yellow squash, red onion, and a drizzle of garlic-infused oil, this vibrant pie is topped with two types of cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a delicious finish.
The grill gives the crust that perfect smoky char while the summer squash adds a tender, slightly sweet bite that pairs beautifully with the savory toppings. It’s a healthier, veggie-packed option that still feels indulgent and satisfying.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard dinner or just looking for a fun twist on your usual pizza, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s colorful, simple to make, and bursting with summer flavor—you’ll want to fire up the grill for it again and again.