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Hot & Cold Summer Squash

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Pixicook editorial team

A delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures, this dish combines the fresh, citrusy aroma of orange zest with the subtle heat of red pepper flakes to elevate simple summer squash to a gourmet experience.

Ingredients for Hot & Cold Summer Squash

units in
USchevron
serves
4 peoplechevron

Garlic Clove, smashed and peeled

each

Zucchini, sliced into 1/3-inch-thick rounds

0 lb

Yellow Summer Squash, sliced into 1/3-inch-thick rounds

lb

Parsley Stems, minced, tender

cups

Orange Zest, grated

tablespoons

Pomì Strained Tomatoes, reduced by half

cups

How to Make Hot & Cold Summer Squash

1. Infuse Oil with Garlic

Heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a 12-inch sauté pan over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic cloves and let them cook until they're golden brown, about one minute.

2. Cook First Batch of Squash

Add half of the zucchini slices to the pan along with half of the minced parsley and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Sauté for about 7 minutes until the zucchini has softened but not browned. Transfer the zucchini to a large bowl.

3. Season First Batch

Mix in half of the grated orange zest and half of the hot red pepper flakes into the zucchini in the bowl.

4. Cook Second Batch of Squash

Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and repeat the process with the remaining zucchini slices, parsley, and a pinch of salt for another 7 minutes.

5. Combine and Finish

Combine the second batch in the bowl with the first. Gently fold in the reduced Pomì strained tomatoes, and drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top, giving everything a gentle stir to marry the flavors.

Pitfalls and tips

Choose the Right Squash

Select firm, unblemished summer squash. Varieties like zucchini and yellow squash are ideal.

Use High Heat Wisely

Ensure your cooking surface is hot before adding the squash to achieve a good sear for flavor intensification.

Uniform Cutting

Slice the squash uniformly for consistent cooking and presentation. Use a mandoline for paper-thin slices for salads.

Balance Acidity and Sweetness

Add a splash of acid like lemon juice or vinegar, and a touch of honey or agave for flavor balance.

Texture Contrast

Incorporate different textures with nuts and shaved hard cheese for crunch and savory flavor.

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