Every year we grow Butterstick summer squash because it’s a winner all the way around. It’s prolific, delicious, easy to grow, and even when large, the squash is still tender and quite suitable for just about any application.
The plant produces an elongated squash, much like a zucchini, and it can grow to the size of your thigh if you let it.
I like to pick it just after the blossoms start to dry up.
If you pick it earlier, it’s also very good.
Even though it’s a zucchini type, it doesn’t have a flavor like zucchini.
When prepared with butter, onions, thyme, cream and cheese, it makes a wonderful side dish that you just can’t beat.
The plants grow easily and quickly, indoors or out. If given sufficient water, they’ll grow to about 4 feet around.
If given sufficient heat and water, expect something about 6 feet around.
A faithful producer of light yellow fruit, it’s not uncommon to count 12 or more squash under development on a single plant.
For a family of four, two plants will be sufficient to keep you in delicious yellow summer squash all season long.
I grow mine in the greenhouse on a drip system, and they never fail to provide us with an abundance of excellent quality fruit.
If you’re looking for a nice producer of delicious summer squash, Butterstick is what I recommend. It can be found near the top of my list of best vegetables.
Try it and I think you’ll agree that it’s a winner that deserves a place in your vegetable garden every year.
This is the type of vegetable that once you discover it’s value, you just won’t miss out on it ever again. It will become a regular in your garden beds.
Butterstick summer squash is a warm-season crop that is relatively easy to grow. Here are the basic steps to grow butterstick summer squash:
- Choose the right location: Squash needs full sun to thrive, so select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Make sure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
- Prepare the soil: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and texture. Squash prefers soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8, so you may need to adjust the pH if it’s too low or high.
- Plant the seeds: Sow butterstick squash seeds directly into the garden after the last frost date in your area. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 2-3 feet apart in rows that are 4-6 feet apart. You can also plant squash in hills, which are mounds of soil that are about 2 feet in diameter and 4-6 feet apart. Plant 4-5 seeds in each hill and thin to the two strongest seedlings once they emerge.
- Water regularly: Squash needs consistent moisture to grow well, so water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to fungal diseases.
- Fertilize: Squash is a heavy feeder, so fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can also side-dress the plants with compost or well-rotted manure once a month.
- Control pests and diseases: Squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and powdery mildew are common pests and diseases that can affect squash. Monitor your plants regularly and take action as soon as you notice any signs of trouble. You can use organic or chemical control methods, depending on your preference.
- Harvest: Butterstick squash is ready to harvest when it reaches 4-6 inches in length and the skin is still tender. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the squash from the plant, taking care not to damage the stem or leaves.
By following these steps, you can grow healthy and delicious butterstick summer squash in your garden.
Butterstick Summer Squash Recipes
Grilled Butterstick Summer Squash Recipe
Butterstick summer squash is a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling. Grilling is a great way to cook squash because it brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that complements its tender texture. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make grilled butterstick summer squash in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 medium-sized butterstick summer squash
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with a little bit of oil to prevent the squash from sticking.
- Slice the squash: Wash the squash and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Make sure the slices are evenly sized so that they cook evenly.
- Season the squash: Drizzle the olive oil over the squash slices and use a pastry brush or your fingers to evenly coat them. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Grill the squash: Place the squash slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Use a spatula to flip them over once they have grill marks and are slightly charred. Cook them until they are tender but still slightly firm to the touch.
- Serve the grilled squash: Remove the squash from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar if desired.
Tips:
- Be sure to slice the squash evenly so that they cook at the same rate.
- Do not overcook the squash, as it will become mushy and lose its texture.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet to cook the squash on the stovetop.
- To make the dish more flavorful, you can add garlic, lemon juice, or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the olive oil before brushing it onto the squash.
Conclusion:
Grilled butterstick summer squash is a simple and delicious side dish that can be prepared in just a few minutes. It is a healthy and nutritious option that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other grilled vegetables or meats. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or for those who want to add more variety to their vegetable dishes. Try it out and enjoy the delicious flavors of grilled butterstick summer squash!
Butterstick Summer Squash Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty casserole that’s also loaded with vegetables, then this butterstick summer squash casserole recipe is perfect for you. The dish features tender slices of butterstick squash baked with savory cheddar cheese and buttery crackers for a crunchy topping. It’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or potluck. Here’s how to make this delicious casserole.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 medium-sized butterstick summer squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup of crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the squash: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced squash and sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Layer the sautéed squash in the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the squash. Then, sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers over the cheese.
- Add more butter: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and pour it over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crackers are golden brown.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it hot as a side dish or main course.
Tips:
- Use any type of buttery cracker for the topping, such as Ritz or Club crackers.
- You can also add sliced onions or minced garlic to the sautéed squash for added flavor.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-sliced squash from the grocery store instead of slicing it yourself.
- To make the casserole creamier, you can add a layer of sour cream or cream cheese between the squash and cheese layers.
Conclusion:
Butterstick summer squash casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory cheese and buttery cracker topping, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with additional ingredients to suit your taste. So give it a try and enjoy a hearty and flavorful casserole that’s loaded with nutritious vegetables.
Butterstick Summer Squash Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a warm and comforting soup that’s loaded with vegetables, then this butterstick summer squash soup recipe is perfect for you. The soup is creamy, savory, and packed with the natural sweetness of the squash. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. Here’s how to make this delicious soup.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 medium-sized butterstick summer squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the cubed squash and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Add the broth: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is very tender.
- Puree the soup: Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids, as they can splatter.
- Add the cream: Pour the heavy cream into the pot and stir until it’s fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips:
- If you don’t have an immersion blender or a blender, you can use a potato masher to mash the squash in the pot until it’s smooth.
- For a vegan option, use vegetable broth and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or another dairy-free alternative.
- You can also add other vegetables like carrots or celery to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
- To make the soup spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Conclusion:
Butterstick summer squash soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for cooler weather. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with additional ingredients to suit your taste. So give it a try and enjoy a warm and satisfying soup that’s loaded with nutritious vegetables.
Butterstick Summer Squash Fritters Recipe
Butterstick summer squash fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. The fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with the natural sweetness of the squash shining through. This recipe is perfect for using up a surplus of summer squash and can be customized with different seasonings and toppings. Here’s how to make these delicious fritters.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized butterstick summer squash, grated
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the squash: Grate the butterstick summer squash using a box grater or a food processor. Squeeze out any excess liquid from the grated squash and transfer it to a large bowl.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the wet ingredients: Add the beaten eggs and milk to the bowl of grated squash and mix until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the squash mixture, stirring until a batter forms. Stir in the chopped scallions.
- Fry the fritters: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with a spatula. Cook the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Serve the fritters hot, garnished with additional scallions or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips:
- To keep the fritters warm while cooking in batches, preheat your oven to 200°F and transfer the cooked fritters to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until ready to serve.
- You can also add different seasonings to the batter, such as garlic powder or paprika, to add additional flavor to the fritters.
- For a healthier option, you can bake the fritters in the oven instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Conclusion:
Butterstick summer squash fritters are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for using up any extra squash in your garden. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, these fritters are sure to be a hit at any meal. This recipe is easy to customize with different seasonings and toppings, making it a versatile addition to any recipe collection. Give it a try and enjoy these crispy and flavorful fritters today!
Butterstick Summer Squash and Tomato Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing summer salad that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, then try this butterstick summer squash and tomato salad recipe. This colorful salad is a great way to showcase the vibrant flavors of fresh summer vegetables. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of the butterstick squash. Here’s how to make this tasty salad.
Ingredients:
- 2 large butterstick summer squash, sliced
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables: Rinse the butterstick summer squash and cherry tomatoes. Slice the squash into thin rounds and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the basil leaves.
- Combine the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced butterstick summer squash, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss the vegetables gently to combine.
- Dress the salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat. Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the butterstick summer squash and tomato salad chilled or at room temperature. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the top of the salad before serving.
Tips:
- You can add crumbled feta or goat cheese to the salad for added flavor and texture.
- Try adding other fresh herbs to the salad, such as mint or parsley.
- To make the salad a complete meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
Conclusion:
This butterstick summer squash and tomato salad recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of summer. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a simple dressing make for a light and refreshing salad that’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish for any meal. Customize the salad with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the flavors of the season!