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Skillet Squash and Onions: A Taste of Simple Comfort

My grandmother, bless her heart, wasn’t one for fancy ingredients or elaborate presentations. Her cooking was all about using what she had on hand from her garden and turning it into something nourishing and delicious. I can still picture her standing at the stove, her floral apron dusted with flour, stirring a skillet of squash and onions. The sweet aroma would fill the entire house, a promise of simple, honest comfort that always made me feel right at home. This dish, though humble, carries that same warmth and reminds me of those precious moments spent with her.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Yield: 4-6 servings
Dietary Type: Vegan (if using margarine/oil), Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

3 tablespoons margarine or 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 lbs zucchini or 2 lbs yellow squash, scrubbed and sliced 1/2-inch thick
3 medium yellow onions, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
1 teaspoon salt
1⁄4 teaspoon summer savory
1⁄4 teaspoon oregano
1⁄8 teaspoon nutmeg
1⁄8 teaspoon pepper

Equipment Needed

Large skillet with lid
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups

Instructions

Begin by preparing your vegetables. Thoroughly scrub the zucchini or yellow squash and slice them into half-inch thick rounds. There’s no need to peel them unless you prefer to.
Next, peel the yellow onions and slice them into quarter-inch thick slices. Aim for even slices to ensure they cook uniformly.
Place the large skillet over low heat. Add 3 tablespoons of either margarine or extra virgin olive oil. Allow the margarine to melt completely, or the oil to heat through.
Add the sliced squash and onions to the skillet. Then, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of summer savory, 1/4 teaspoon of oregano, 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper.
Gently stir all the ingredients together to ensure the squash and onions are evenly coated with the margarine or oil and spices.
Cover the skillet with a lid. This will help to trap the steam and cook the vegetables evenly.
Cook over low heat for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Once the squash is easily pierced with a fork, remove from heat and serve.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Salt Early: Adding salt at the beginning helps draw out moisture from the squash and onions, which aids in even cooking and enhances their flavor.
Low and Slow is Key: Cooking over low heat allows the onions to caramelize beautifully without burning, while the squash becomes tender and sweet. Don’t rush the process!
Herb Infusion: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary to the skillet while cooking. Remove before serving.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices.
Browning: If you prefer a bit more color on your vegetables, remove the lid during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking and increase the heat slightly, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made a day ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This skillet squash and onions is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, roasted pork, or a hearty vegetarian main course. It also makes a delicious addition to frittatas or omelets.

To store leftovers, allow the squash and onions to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	148.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	57%
Total Fat	9.5 g	14%
Saturated Fat	5.7 g	28%
Cholesterol	22.9 mg	7%
Sodium	679 mg	28%
Total Carbohydrate	14.9 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	3.8 g	15%
Sugars	9.2 g	36%
Protein	3.8 g	7%

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.

Variations & Substitutions

Different Squash: Feel free to experiment with different types of squash, such as butternut squash or acorn squash. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Garlic: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet along with the onions for extra flavor.
Herbs: Use a different combination of herbs to suit your taste. Thyme, rosemary, or basil would all be delicious additions.
Vegan Option: If using margarine, ensure it’s a vegan variety to keep the dish plant-based.
Sweetness: Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey at the end of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking can add a nice tang.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen squash, but be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. This will help prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

Q: How do I know when the squash is done?
A: The squash is done when it is fork-tender, meaning it can be easily pierced with a fork without resistance.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots to the skillet along with the squash and onions.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish can be made a day or two ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Q: What can I serve with skillet squash and onions?
A: Skillet squash and onions is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as grilled chicken, fish, roasted pork, or vegetarian dishes like lentil soup or vegetable curry.

Final Thoughts

Skillet Squash and Onions is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting side dish. Its ease of preparation and adaptable nature makes it a welcome addition to any kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and let the flavors of summer savory, oregano, and nutmeg transport you to a place of simple comfort. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and experiences; happy cooking!

Skillet Squash and Onions Recipe