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Garlic Parmesan Roasted Patty Pan Squash is a flavorful and easy side dish that celebrates the unique shape and tender texture of patty pan squash. Roasted to perfection with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, this dish brings out the natural sweetness and nuttiness of the squash while delivering a crispy, savory finish. It’s perfect for summer meals or holiday feasts and pairs well with grilled meats, pastas, or as a vegetarian main course with a salad.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

1½ pounds patty pan squash (small to medium-sized), trimmed and halved or sliced into wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or zest for brightness

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
Prepare the squash by trimming the stems and slicing into uniform wedges or halves, depending on size, to ensure even roasting.
Toss the squash in a large bowl with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using) until evenly coated.
Spread the squash out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down for browning.
Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until squash is tender and golden brown on the edges.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the squash during the last 5 minutes of roasting. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and slightly crisped.
Remove from oven and let cool for a minute. Transfer to a serving plate.
Garnish with parsley and, if desired, a splash of lemon juice or zest for added brightness.
Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite protein or main meal.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 130
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 6mg
Sodium: 280mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin A: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 25% DV
Calcium: 12% DV
Iron: 5% DV

What Makes Patty Pan Squash Unique

Patty pan squash, also known as scallop squash, stands out for its charming UFO-like shape and mild, slightly nutty flavor. This summer squash is a member of the cucurbit family, and its tender flesh and edible skin make it perfect for roasting. Its compact size and attractive ridges give it visual appeal on the plate, making it a popular choice for gourmet recipes and home cooks alike. Because of its delicate taste and soft texture when cooked, patty pan squash absorbs seasoning well, especially the bold notes of garlic and Parmesan in this recipe.

Health Benefits of Patty Pan Squash

Patty pan squash is a nutrient-dense vegetable low in calories and rich in water content, making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet. It provides essential vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin A, which help boost the immune system and support skin health. Additionally, it contains dietary fiber that supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar. The vegetable’s potassium content contributes to heart health by helping to manage blood pressure. When roasted with olive oil and garlic, this dish becomes both nutritious and satisfying without excessive calories or saturated fats.

The Role of Garlic in Flavor and Nutrition

Garlic is a key player in this roasted squash dish, lending its deep, aromatic flavor and pungent warmth. Beyond flavor, garlic has long been valued for its medicinal properties. It contains allicin, a sulfur compound known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Garlic also supports cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Roasting the garlic alongside squash softens its sharpness, making it sweeter and more mellow, which complements the buttery texture of roasted vegetables beautifully.

Why Parmesan is a Perfect Match

Parmesan cheese contributes a savory, umami-rich dimension to the dish. Its salty, nutty profile enhances the sweetness of the roasted squash and the robustness of garlic. Parmesan also crisps up in the oven, creating irresistible golden edges that contrast with the soft squash. Nutritionally, Parmesan is high in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and satiety. Using freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded varieties ensures better melting and stronger flavor, giving the dish a restaurant-quality finish.

Tips for Perfect Roasting

Roasting is one of the best cooking methods for enhancing the natural flavors of patty pan squash. To ensure even browning and crisp edges, it’s essential to slice the squash into uniform pieces and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. A hot oven—around 425°F (220°C)—allows the squash to caramelize while remaining tender inside. Spreading the squash in a single layer ensures that steam can escape, preventing sogginess. Adding Parmesan during the final minutes of roasting helps it melt perfectly without burning.

Delicious Variations to Try

There are many ways to personalize this Garlic Parmesan Roasted Patty Pan Squash. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the olive oil mix. You can also toss in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or red onions for a colorful medley. Swapping Parmesan for other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago can also alter the flavor profile. For herb lovers, fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme make fragrant additions, either during roasting or as a finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions and Meal Pairings

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of mains. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced dinner. It also complements pasta dishes, especially those with creamy or tomato-based sauces. For a vegetarian meal, pair it with quinoa or couscous and a side of hummus or tzatziki. The savory flavors and tender texture also make it a great addition to a warm grain bowl or Mediterranean-style salad with olives, feta, and chickpeas.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Patty Pan Squash can be prepped ahead for convenience. You can trim and slice the squash a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Mince the garlic and keep it in a small sealed jar with olive oil. When you’re ready to roast, simply combine the ingredients and pop them in the oven. Cooked squash also holds up well for meal prep—store in individual containers with your favorite grain or protein for easy weekday lunches.

Storage and Reheating Advice

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to four days. While the roasted squash is best enjoyed fresh, it reheats well in the oven or air fryer, which helps restore some of the crispy texture. Reheating in the microwave is faster but can result in a softer consistency. If storing for longer periods, consider freezing the cooked squash on a tray, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. However, be aware that freezing may slightly change the texture upon thawing.

Making It Vegan or Dairy-Free

To make a vegan or dairy-free version of this recipe, simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast is a popular choice, offering a cheesy, umami flavor while being rich in B vitamins. You can also try dairy-free shredded cheese made from cashews or coconut oil, many of which melt well and complement the garlic and squash flavors. Keep the olive oil and garlic base the same, and you’ll still have a savory and satisfying dish with a plant-based twist.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Patty Pan Squash is more than just a seasonal side—it’s a flavorful, nutritious, and visually appealing dish that suits a variety of diets and meal plans. From its health-boosting ingredients to its endless customization options, this recipe showcases how simple techniques and fresh produce can come together to create something special. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning meals for the week, or simply looking to try a new vegetable, this roasted squash dish is a reliable and delicious choice.