The many uses of pattypan squash

Pattypan squash are pumpkins, but they taste more like zucchini than squash and we also prepare it more like zucchini and squash. If you are not sure what a pattypan squash looks like, thing of a flying saucer – UFO. The colour is usually creamy, but there are other colour varieties (orange for example). Growing is not difficult at all and you can usually start harvesting in mid-summer. And how should you use pattypan squash in the kitchen?

Great for weight loss

Just like zucchini, pattypan squash contains up to 90% water and they are very low in carbohydrates, so they are included in many weight loss diets. But it is not only water you are getting…. pattypan squashes are rich in sodium, potassium, iron, copper, chlorine and phosphorus. Fibber is another important component of pattypan squash. This mixture of nutrients will help you improve your immune and cardiovascular system and it will support digestion too.

Photo: Pixabay

How to cook pattypan squash

You need to peel it before consumption. The skin is tender if you have a young one. But if you get an older one, peeling is not that easy. First, cut the it in half and then remove the stem and the rest of the flowers, if it still has any. Now cut it into several wedges, as they are easier to work with. Scoop out the seeds and remove the skin.

Breaded pattypan squash

One of the most popular ways to consume peeled pattypan squash is to bred them – in a triple wrap and fry them – as a schnitzel. In flour, eggs and breadcrumbs. Fry them shortly. A slightly lighter version is a pattypan squash coated in flour only. Fry small pieces in a little bit of olive oil and sprinkle lightly with vinegar and serve.

Stuffed pattypan squash

No limits to your imagination here. You can choose different fillings: probably the most popular is to use minced meat, some vegetables, mushroom, ketchup or tomato paste, onion and garlic. Let it bake for 20 minutes in the oven. If you want a lighter stuffing you may choose couscous or cheese stuffing.

Grated pattypan squash

Use grated pattypan squash in the same way as grated zucchini. You may add grated pattypan squash to minced meat to make meatballs juicier. You may even add grated pattypan squash to a cake dough to make it lighter. Or potato pancakes for example… Pattypan squash is great in creamy soups, or you can make pattypan squash soup.

Preview photo: Pixabay