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–+ servings
Yellow Squash Boats
Yellow Squash Boats are a delightful and healthy dish perfect for showcasing fresh summer vegetables. This recipe creatively transforms tender yellow squash into edible "boats," filled with a savory asparagus and tomato sauce mixture, and topped with sliced almonds for added texture. These boats make a nutritious side or a light vegetarian entrée. The method of steaming and sautéing keeps the dish vibrant and full of flavor, making it a favorite among home cooks seeking delicious yet wholesome meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 yellow squash
  • 24 asparagus stalks
  • 1 ½ cups tomato sauce
  • Sliced almonds (for topping)
  • 1 tbsp oil (for sautéing)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Squash

  • Slice squash in half lengthwise.
  • Steam until tender (about 10 minutes).
  • Remove from heat, drain, and scoop out seeds to create a cavity.

Step 2: Cook Asparagus

  • Rinse asparagus stalks.
  • Place 12 whole stalks into the squash during the last 5 minutes of steaming.
  • Chop the remaining asparagus.

Step 3: Make Filling

  • Sauté chopped asparagus in oil with garlic.
  • Add tomato sauce and heat until warm.

Step 4: Assemble Boats

  • Fill each squash cavity with the asparagus-tomato mixture.
  • Top with whole asparagus spears.
  • Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top.

Tips

  • Add garlic or onion while sautéing for deeper flavor.
  • Use marinara instead of plain tomato sauce for a richer taste.
  • Add fresh herbs (basil, parsley, oregano) before serving.
  • Substitute zucchini for yellow squash.
  • Add cooked quinoa or rice to the asparagus mixture for a heartier dish.
  • Sprinkle Parmesan or feta for extra richness.
  • Toast the almonds for more flavor.
  • Use roasted red pepper sauce instead of tomato sauce for variation.
  • Make it spicy by adding chili flakes.
  • Serve with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Calories: 130kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 260mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1050IUVitamin C: 26mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 2mg
Keyword asparagus, handwritten recipe, healthy, healthy breakfast, light, low calorie, quick dinner, summer produce, vegetable side dish, vegetarian, vintage recipe, yellow squash
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