What Is Pattypan squash and How Can I Use It?
Pattypan squash rewards a little know-how: how to choose it, cook it, store it, and substitute in a pinch. Browse 4 recipes to cook with it.
Key Points
- Scalloped, saucer-shaped summer squash; mild flavor, thin edible skin, firmer than zucchini.
- Cook small ones whole or halved; hollow out larger ones to stuff and bake.
- Zucchini and yellow summer squash swap in, but hold their shape less well.
What is pattypan squash?
Pattypan squash is a small summer squash shaped like a flying saucer, with scalloped, ruffled edges around the rim. It comes in pale green, bright yellow, and white, usually no bigger than a few inches across.
The flavor is mild and the skin is thin and edible, like its cousins zucchini and yellow summer squash. The difference is texture: pattypan is a touch firmer and denser, which makes it hold its shape better and take well to stuffing.
Ways to Use It
The little ones, an inch or two wide, are best cooked whole or halved, sauteed or roasted until tender and lightly browned. Toss with oil and garlic, then roast at 425°F (220°C) until the edges color.
Larger pattypans are made for stuffing. Slice off the top, scoop out the center, fill with a savory mix, and bake. They also slice into soups and stews, as in Patty Pan Lasagna and Chilled Summer Squash Soup with Fresh Herbs.
Like all summer squash it carries water, so cook it hot enough to brown rather than steam. Zucchini and yellow summer squash substitute one for one, though they will not hold their shape quite as well.
Quick facts
- In Chinese
- pattypan壁球
- British (UK) term
- Pattypan squash
- en français
- pâtissons
- en español
- calabaza pattypan
Recipes using pattypan squash
There are 4 recipes that contain this ingredient.
Yet Another Spontaneous Soup
Vegan vegetable soup with lentils, chickpeas, pattypan squash, zucchini, and miso paste for deep umami flavor. Hearty, protein-rich, and made with water, not broth.
Chilled Summer Squash Soup with Fresh Herbs
Chilled summer squash soup with fresh herbs: a silky cold soup of zucchini, crookneck, and pattypan squash pureed with basil, parsley, and buttermilk. A summer lunch or starter for six.
South American Vegetable Soup
Hearty South American vegetable soup with tomatillos, black beans, chayote, pattypan squash, corn, and a smoky chipotle kick. A filling, plant-based bowl loaded with Latin spices.
Patty Pan Lasagna
Low-carb patty pan squash lasagna using thin squash slices instead of noodles, layered with spaghetti sauce, cottage cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. A gluten-free, veggie-packed comfort dish.
