Sautéed Summer Squash & Corn – Simple, Fresh, Delicious!

Nothing says summer like vibrant, garden-fresh produce turned into a dish bursting with flavor. This Sautéed Summer Squash & Corn recipe is simple to make, packed with seasonal goodness, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend barbecue, this colorful side is about to become your new go-to.

With tender zucchini, golden yellow squash, and sweet corn sautéed in garlic and olive oil, you’ll love how effortlessly this dish comes together. Plus, it’s fully vegan, gluten-free, and ready in just 15 minutes. What’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Quick & Easy: Busy week? No problem. This recipe involves minimal prep and is ready in under 20 minutes.
• Seasonal & Fresh: Highlights summer’s bounty with squash and corn, ingredients that taste best when fresh and in season.
• Healthy & Vegan: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, this dish fits a range of dietary preferences.
• Crowd Favorite: Perfect as a side for family meals, picnics, or summer gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this vibrant side dish to life:

• Olive oil (1 tbsp)
• Zucchini (1, sliced)
• Yellow squash (1, sliced)
• Corn (1 cup, fresh or frozen)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Wash and slice your zucchini and yellow squash into even rounds. If using fresh corn, slice the kernels off the cob.

2. Sauté the Garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

3. Cook the Vegetables

Add the zucchini, yellow squash, and corn to the skillet. Stir well to coat the veggies in the garlic-infused oil. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and the corn is slightly caramelized.

4. Season & Garnish

Season the vegetables with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

5. Serve Warm

Transfer the sautéed veggies to a serving dish and enjoy while warm!

Tips & Tricks for Success

1. Use Fresh Produce

Whenever possible, use farm-fresh zucchini, yellow squash, and sweet corn for the best flavor and texture.

2. Even Slicing

Cut the squash into evenly-sized rounds to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate.

3. Control the Garlic Heat

Garlic can burn easily. Make sure your skillet isn’t too hot when you sauté it.

4. Caramelization is Key

Don’t rush the cooking process! Allow the squash and corn to caramelize slightly for added depth of flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Add a Protein

Toss in some cooked chickpeas or crispy tofu for a heartier dish.

• Make it Spicy

Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.

• Cheesy Upgrade

Sprinkle crumbled feta or parmesan over the finished dish for an extra layer of flavor.

• Citrusy Twist

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness before serving.

Nutrition & Serving Info

• Calories: ~120 per serving
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Information: Vegan, gluten-free, low-calorie

This recipe is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and plenty of antioxidants, making it as nutritious as it is delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses or can even be enjoyed on its own. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve with grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for a balanced meal.
• Enjoy over a bed of rice or quinoa for a light, wholesome dinner.
• Pair alongside a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete summer meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan

Too many veggies at once will steam them instead of sautéing. Use a large skillet or cook in batches.

2. Skipping the Garlic

The minced garlic is essential to the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip it!

3. Overcooking the Squash

Cook just until tender to avoid mushy squash.

4. Under-seasoning

Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.

FAQ Section

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this recipe is best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance and cook them just before serving.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Simply defrost the corn before adding it to the skillet.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain flavor and texture.

Savor the Flavors of Summer

Now that you know how simple it is to make Sautéed Summer Squash & Corn, it’s time to hit your local farmer’s market, grab some fresh ingredients, and start cooking! This recipe is a celebration of summer produce and just the boost of color and flavor your table needs.