Grilling Squash

One great option for enjoying both winter and summer squash is grilling. It adds a delicious smoked flavor. Turn squash into a simple, quick side dish with oil and the seasoning of your choice.

Grilling Squash Tips

• When summer squash is grilling, keep a close eye on it. It cooks quickly and can easily become overcooked and soft.
• You do not need to cook either summer or winter squash on skewers. Simply slice pieces large enough that they will not slip through the grill grates and are easy to flip.
• If you prefer a sweet, smoky flavor for your squash, brush melted butter and brown sugar on it while it is grilling or immediately afterward.
• Sprinkle raw squash with salt, then place it cavity side down on a couple of paper towels and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes to remove some of the squash's moisture before grilling it. The paper towel will soak up the moisture after the salt draws it out of the squash. Rinse it with cold water before placing it on the grill.
• To reduce grilling time, slice winter squash in thinner pieces.

Summer Squash Grilling Preparation

Do not wash summer squash until you are ready to grill it. Summer squash has soft skin and does not need to be peeled. Some types of summer squash have a high water content, which does not make them good choices for grilling. One of the best summer squash grilling options is zucchini. Rinse the squash with cool water and cut off both of the ends. Cut it in half and take out the seeds. You can opt to slice it lengthwise or crosswise, depending on your grill preference.

Summer Squash Grilling

Cut the squash into pieces that are 3/8 to 1/2 inches thick. If you choose, slide them onto soaked bamboo skewers. It is recommended that skewers soak for 30 minutes before grilling. Brush cooking oil or melted butter onto the squash. Place it directly on the grill with medium heat. Season as you like. Many people opt for salt and pepper or steak seasoning. Cook each side for four to five minutes, turning over when one side has browned. The squash is ready to eat when it is tender but not mushy. Serve hot.

Winter Squash Grilling Preparation

Winter squash needs to be baked partially in a microwave before it can be peeled and cubed. Make several incisions in the squash skin with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape. Microwave the squash in the microwave for six to eight minutes. Make sure to use a microwave safe dish. Let it stand for ten minutes before using a sharp knife to remove the skin. After you have peeled the squash, slice it in half. Remove all of the stringy fibers and seeds. Cut is into pieces that are approximately one and a half inches.

Winter Squash Grilling

If you choose, slice the cubed squash onto metal skewers. Brush it with melted butter. Place the squash directly on the grill over indirect high heat. Put the hood down and cook the squash for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once. The squash it ready to eat when it is tender. After you have removed it from the grill, brush it with two tablespoons of honey and 1/4 cup of melted butter. Serve warm.