Ever wondered what to do with patty pan squash or just wonder what is patty pan squash?

After a number of summer's going to the farmer's market almost every Saturday I would always eye up these strangely shaped squash and ponder what would you do with them.  I come to find out they are called Patty Pan or sun burst squash.

This weekend I decided to buy a couple and find something fun to do with them.  I did a bit of searching on line and I found that the only way to not destroy the fun look was to stuff them. There are plenty of different recipes online for patty pan squash so feel free to look around to find something a little more "exciting".  I decided to just mix together the black beans, rice, some shredded cheese and a few roasted garlic cloves (seriously new favority ingredient)!  I planned to serve as a side to my meal.  

I preheated our small counter top oven to 350 degrees.  I place on a rack in a shallow pan. 

I covered the squash with foil and roasted for ~45 mins.  The time will depend on the size of squash.  I pulled the foil for the last 10 mins.  They were done when the squash were tender.  I suggest setting a timer for 20 to 30 mins at a time to watch progress. 

Finished product....I served with sliced chicken and a chopped salad.  Enjoy the summer vegetables that are available.   

Send us a note if you have a question on how to prepare a fun find from the farmer's market!  We would be happy to give you a a few ideas!