Day 5 - Grill, Grill, Grill

One of the many wonderful things about summer squashes is how easily they lend themselves to the grill.  Squash browns well, they will hold their shape nicely when cooked, and are simply delicious coming off the grill.  Squash also won't discriminate between gas and charcoal.  Either will work equally well.  Zucchini, yellow, patty pan or sunburst are all great when grilled.  Grilled squash is Becca's favorite preparation style, so it is a frequent addition to dinner in our house.

There are many possible preparations that could use grilled squash, from the simple to the fairly complex.  Below is a basic recipe for grilling.

Wash and clean two medium squash.  Cut off the ends and slice into slices of equal thickness.  Coat each side with olive oil.  I like to use aerosol sprayed oil to get an even coating.  You can also use a paintbrush or just spread the oil by hand.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Heat the grill so that it is very hot.  If using charcoal, make sure the coals are completely white.

Set the squash onto the hottest part of the grill.  Cook until well charred.  Turn and cook other side.

Remove from grill and let stand for a couple of minutes.  There may be a fair amount of liquid.  If so, drain the liquid before adding to other ingredients or before serving.

Once you have grilled squash there are many possibilities for salads. side dishes and main courses.  Tonight I opted for a salad.

2 grilled squash (see above)
1 bunch of fresh basil
1 tomato
1/2 cup smoked mozzarella cut into small cubes
3 anchovies chopped fine (optional.  if you don't like it, don't use it)
1/4 cup vinaigrette dressing

For this recipe, the squash should be cut in half lengthwise and grilled.  Once cooked, each half can be sliced into 1/2 inch slices.  Chop tomato into large chunks, put squash and tomato into a large bowl.  Chop basil into a large dice, and to the squash and tomato mixture.  Add cheese and anchovies and mix together.  Add the dressing, mix well and serve.  If you want to make this a salad, serve it over mixed greens.

reviews:  8 year old….refused to even try it.  Its going to be hard to get her to eat squash everyday…Becca…loved it.  14 and18 year olds are out of town for a few days.