Grilled Summer Squash with Pesto and Balsamic Syrup
by Maria Helm Sinskey
Summer squash takes on a deliciously smoky, caramelized flavor when grilled. Try to slice the squash into ovals, which are easier than rounds to manage on the grill grate.
Serves 4
1-1/2 lb. assorted summer squash, trimmed and sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick ovals
Kosher salt
1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup plus 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil, more for drizzling
2 Tbs. grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
Freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbs. toasted pine nuts
Prepare a high gas or charcoal grill fire. In a colander, toss the squash with 2 tsp. kosher salt and drain for 30 minutes; transfer to a large bowl.
Meanwhile, put the the basil, Parmigiano-Reggiano, 1/4 cup of the olive oil, and 1/2 tsp. salt in a food processor and purée until smooth.
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, boil the balsamic vinegar until syrupy and reduced to about 2 Tbs., 8 to 10 minutes.
Toss the squash with the remaining 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil and a few grinds of
freshly ground black pepper. Grill, flipping once, until golden and
tender, 8 to 12 minutes. Arrange on a platter, dot with the pesto, and
drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and the balsamic syrup to taste. Sprinkle with pine nuts and serve.
nutrition information (per serving):
Calories
(kcal):
270;
Fat
(g):
24;
Fat Calories
(kcal):
220;
Saturated Fat
(g):
3.5;
Protein
(g):
4;
Monounsaturated Fat
(g):
16;
Carbohydrates
(g):
11;
Polyunsaturated Fat
(g):
4;
Sodium
(mg):
750;
Cholesterol
(mg):
0;
Fiber
(g):
2;
photo: Scott Phillips
From Fine Cooking 117
, pp. 63
May 3, 2012