We’ve started to have an overabundance of zucchini and yellow squash thanks to our CSA and we have come up with a few new recipes for both! We’ve tried all sorts of ways to eat them, but no one is ever THRILLED about it or raving about how good they are. I’ve tried roasting and grilling and sauteing all to no avail.

They will usually eat it, but there are usually a few gags around the table. I think it’s the firm outer ring of the squash mixed with the squishy seeds and center that turns all of us off. I don’t like how the consistency changes depending on what part of the squash or zucchini you are eating.

I have found that doing stuffed zucchini or squash is a hit and I think removing the center and the seeds is what made all the difference. So keeping that in mind I decided to try something else!

I used the [amazon_link id=”B001THGPDO” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]mandolin[/amazon_link] and julienned  the squash and/or zucchini, leaving the center to enrich the compost! I didn’t peal it and used the firmer part of the squash. Once the [amazon_link id=”B001THGPDO” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]mandolin[/amazon_link] started slicing the softer, spongier center I turned it and julienned the other side.

Once they were all sliced I cooked them one of two ways. You can steam them or blanch. I tend to like them blanched more. So, once I have a pot of water to a rolling boil I throw in the squash for 2 minutes tops and then remove from the heat and toss into a pot of ice water to cool it and stop the cooking. The result is squash or zucchini that is cooked, but still has a firm, noodle texture.

Once these are out you can top with spaghetti squash or our FANTASTIC pesto. For lunch last week I did 5 yellow zucchini and we all wanted more. That means we each ate ONE WHOLE zucchini on our own. That never would have happened eating it any other way, except maybe stuffed! Not only did we eat it all, but we all were looking for additional servings! AND one recipe of the pesto was the perfect amount and we licked our plates clean! And for those of you on a budget… there is no meat in this recipe so it’s a cheaper meal as well… however, beware of children begging for more…

I highly recommend this recipe and I hope you give it a try! PLEASE let me know if you do!