Summer Squash Ribbons with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Pesto

Total time: 20 mins, Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds mixed yellow and green zucchini or other long summer squash
• ½pound cherry tomatoes, halved (about 1½ cups)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground pepper to taste
• ¼ cup pesto (both basil and basil/mint are good), diluted with 2 to 3 tablespoons warm or hot water

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Using a vegetable peeler, cut squash into lengthwise ribbons. Peel off several ribbons from one side, then turn squash and peel off more ribbons. Continue to turn and peel off ribbons until you get to the seeds at the core of the squash. Discard core. You can also do this on a mandolin, adjusted to a very thin slice.
2. Cook squash strips and tomatoes in 2 batches. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and when it is hot, add squash ribbons, half the garlic, tomatoes, and salt to taste. Cook, using tongs to toss and stir squash and cherry tomatoes, for 2 to 3 minutes, until squash has softened and is beginning to become translucent and tomatoes are beginning to shrivel. Adjust salt and add freshly ground pepper to taste, and transfer to a serving dish. Repeat with remaining olive oil, squash, cherry tomatoes and garlic. Return first batch to the pan, stir everything together, heat through and transfer again to the serving bowl or individual plates. Pour any juices in the pan over squash. Top each serving with a spoonful of pesto (about a tablespoon), and serve, with additional freshly grated Parmesan if desired.

Credit: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1016795-summer-squash-ribbons-with-cherry-tomatoes-and-mint-basil-pesto?algo=identity&fellback=true&imp_id=7191929229345954&req_id=4722558906980145&surface=cooking-search-web&variant=0_relevance_reranking#notes_section

BENEFITS

Summer squash is a light, hydrating vegetable that shines in warm weather meals. Naturally low in calories yet rich in water and fiber, it supports digestion and helps keep you feeling satisfied without heaviness. It’s also a good source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and manganese, which plays a role in bone health and metabolism. The skin of summer squash is full of antioxidants like carotenoids, so enjoying it with the peel boosts its nutritional value. Its mild flavor makes it easy to add to stir-fries, sautés, or grilled dishes for a fresh burst of nourishment.