I’ve got a thing for yellow summer squash — especially the cute round ones. While I usually toss them on the grill, this sautéed version is just too easy (and too good) not to share. Garlicky, lemony, and tossed with chickpeas, this 15-minute recipe tastes like sunshine in a skillet.
Type of Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Prep Time: 5 minutss.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
How Many Servings?
4 servings
This sautéed summer squash recipe is one of my favorite go-to meals when yellow squash is in season. While I usually toss these sunny, round beauties on the grill, this time I wanted something simple — and this dish couldn’t be easier. I quarter the squash, sauté it with good olive oil, plenty of garlic, and then toss in some chickpeas for a protein boost. A splash of lemon and a handful of fresh herbs turn it into either a light, satisfying main or a vibrant side dish that tastes like summer on a plate.
Why I Love This Sautéed Summer Squash Recipe
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Quick & Easy – This entire sautéed summer squash recipe comes together in just 15 minutes!
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Seasonal & Fresh – It’s one of the simplest (and tastiest) ways to enjoy summer squash at its peak.
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Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week as a side or light lunch.
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Customizable – Add your favorite herbs, spices, or even swap chickpeas for black beans or white beans.
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Delicious Every Time – It’s light, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with just about anything.
Ingredients
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Yellow summer squash (quartered) – Tender, buttery, and slightly sweet — the star of this summer recipe.
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Chickpeas (cooked or canned) – Adds protein, texture, and turns this into a more filling meal.
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Olive oil – Rich, fruity base that helps everything sauté to golden perfection.
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Garlic (minced) – Aromatic punch that brings out the earthy sweetness of the squash.
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Ground cumin – Warm, subtle spice that adds depth and a Mediterranean vibe.
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Lemon juice (and optional zest) – Brightens the whole dish and brings everything to life.
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Salt and pepper – Balance flavors and bring out the natural taste of the ingredients.
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Fresh herbs (like parsley or mint) – Adds color, freshness, and a pop of flavor in every bite.
What to Serve With This Sautéed Summer Squash
This easy sautéed summer squash recipe is delicious on its own, but it also makes the perfect companion to so many dishes:
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Grilled chicken kabobs – A light, smoky main that pairs perfectly with squash and chickpeas.
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Lamb chops or kofta kebabs – Bring out bold Mediterranean flavors for a BBQ or special dinner.
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Big fattoush salad – Add crunch and freshness for a vibrant summer plate.
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BBQ platters – Serve this as a fresh veggie side on your grill table spread.
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Meal prep bowls – Combine with rice or quinoa for a ready-to-go, healthy lunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sauté the Squash
Add Garlic and Cumin
Stir in the Chickpeas
Finish and Serve
This sautéed summer squash recipe is tossed with garlic, chickpeas, lemon, and fresh herbs — ready in just 15 minutes. A healthy side or light main dish that’s big on Mediterranean flavor.
Type of Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Prep Time: 5 minutss.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
How Many Servings?
4 servings
Ingredients:
| 15 round yellow summer squashes, quartered | |
| 1 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained & rinsed) | |
| 5 cloves garlic, minced | |
| 1 teaspoon ground cumin | |
| 1 lemon zest and juiced | |
| Salt and pepper, to taste | |
| 2 tablespoons olive oil | |
| 4 tablespoonse chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or basil — or a mix) |
Preparation
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the quartered summer squash and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender.
Push the squash to one side of the skillet. Add minced garlic and ground cumin to the other side, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss in the chickpeas and stir everything together. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, until the chickpeas are warmed through.
Remove from heat, squeeze in fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything with chopped herbs and serve warm or at room temperature. For extra richness, drizzle with more olive oil before serving.
Recipe Tips & Suggestions
Store:
Reheat:
Make Ahead:
Nutrition Information
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice.
See our full nutrition disclosure here.
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If you made this sautéed summer squash recipe — or put your own twist on it — I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Did you add different herbs? Try another type of bean? Your ideas always inspire me and other readers as well!