Grilled squash with gremolata

September 16, 2009

Serves 4

The weather is cooling off, but there’s still plenty of succulent fresh zucchini, yellow crookneck, and pattypan squash at farmers’ markets. This dish tops grilled squash with gremolata, the classic Italian condiment made by chopping flat-leaf parsley, garlic, and lemon rind together. Citrusy and spicy, the relish also adds a garden-fresh brightness when sprinkled on sliced tomatoes, oven-roasted potatoes, corn-on-the-cob, seafood, and chicken. Gremolata is the classic garnish for osso buco, the dish of braised veal shanks. Newer gremolatas are made with chopped mint or capers (nice with lamb or salmon). Familiar vegetables just got a lot more interesting.

SQUASH

4 medium zucchini, yellow crookneck,or pattypansquash(or a mixture) Olive oil (for sprinkling) Salt and pepper, to taste 1.

Light a charcoal fire or turn a gas grill to medium-high.

2. Halve the squash lengthwise. Coat it with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill the squash until it is lightly charred. Move the squash to a cooler part of the grill and continue cooking for 5 minutes or until tender.

GREMOLATA

1/2 cup packed Italian flat-leaf parsley leaves, coarsely chopped 4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped Grated rind of 2 lemons Sea salt, to taste

1. On a board, chop the parsley, garlic, and lemon together until finely chopped. Transfer to a bowl. Stir in the salt.

2. Sprinkle the mixture over the grilled zucchini or squash. Allison Boomer