Fresh & Delicious: 10 Amish-Inspired Ways to Use Zucchini & Squash

Squash and zucchini are staples in the Amish garden. Amish families both can their squash harvests – and use them fresh, to make a variety of recipes. Take some inspiration from this collection of Amish-inspired squash and zucchini dishes for your next meal. ~Erik

If you’re looking to spice up your meals with some hearty and delicious Amish-style dishes, you’re in for a treat! These 10 Amish-style zucchini and squash recipes bring warm, rustic flavors straight from the heart of Amish cooking to your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, these easy-to-follow recipes are sure to delight everyone at the table.

1. Amish Zucchini Bread

Amish Zucchini Bread combines the subtle sweetness of zucchini with warm spices. This bread is moist and tender, making it perfect for breakfast or a snack. It’s a simple recipe that anyone can master, even if you’re new to baking.

The taste is a lovely blend of sweetness and spice, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up that summer bounty of zucchini from your garden. This bread comes together quickly and fills your kitchen with a homey aroma that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated zucchini
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the grated zucchini, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in nuts if using.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Amish Squash Casserole

Amish Squash Casserole showcases the natural flavors of summer squash and zucchini. This comforting casserole combines tender vegetables with a creamy, cheesy base, all topped with a crispy, golden bread crumb crust. It’s a dish that balances richness and freshness, making it an excellent side or main course for any gathering.

Not only is this casserole delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a dish that everyone will enjoy, whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck. The blend of flavors is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced zucchini
• 4 cups sliced yellow squash
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and chopped onion. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream to the vegetable mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

3. Amish Zucchini Fritters

Amish zucchini fritters are a delightful way to enjoy summer squash. These crispy bites are packed with flavor and have a light, fluffy texture that makes them irresistible. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, they bring a taste of traditional Amish cooking right to your table.

Making zucchini fritters is simple and quick, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The combination of grated zucchini, herbs, and a few pantry staples results in a dish that is both satisfying and wholesome. Plus, they can be easily customized with your favorite spices or dipping sauces!

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated zucchini
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or dill)
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture. This step is crucial to ensure your fritters are crispy.
2. Mix the Batter: In a bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs. Stir until well mixed.
3. Heat the Oil: In a skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.
4. Cook the Fritters: Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve: Enjoy these fritters warm, with your favorite dipping sauce or a dollop of sour cream!

4. Amish Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Amish Stuffed Zucchini Boats showcase the freshness of summer vegetables. The zucchini serves as a perfect vessel, filled with a savory mixture of spices, vegetables, and sometimes even meat or grains. The result is a flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a casual family gathering.

This recipe is not only simple but also versatile. You can customize the stuffing to include your favorite ingredients, making it a fun way to use up leftover veggies or grains. Baked until tender, these zucchini boats are sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup cooked ground turkey or beef
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create boats.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic until softened. Add the cooked meat, rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and heated through.
3. Stuff the zucchini halves with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

5. Amish Squash And Onion Sauté

Amish Squash and Onion Sauté highlights the natural sweetness of summer squash and the savory notes of sautéed onions. This simple recipe brings together fresh ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a side dish for gatherings. The combination of flavors creates a hearty dish that can easily complement any main entree.

What makes this sauté special is its versatility. You can adjust the seasoning and add your favorite herbs for a personalized touch. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just a few minutes on the stovetop. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced
• 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Sauté for another 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.

6. Amish Zucchini Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that showcases the subtle sweetness of zucchini, Amish Zucchini Cake is a fantastic option. This cake is moist, fluffy, and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to any gathering or just as a sweet surprise at home. The blend of warm spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, complements the zucchini beautifully, creating a dessert that’s sure to please.

Making this cake is a breeze, so even novice bakers can have success. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for using up those summer zucchinis while offering a deliciously sweet twist to your dessert table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated zucchini
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sugar, and oil. Mix well before adding the eggs and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in the chopped nuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool before serving. Enjoy plain or with a light frosting of your choice!

7. Amish Cheesy Squash Bake

This Amish Cheesy Squash Bake is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of summer to your table. The combination of zucchini and yellow squash creates a pleasant texture, while the creamy cheese sauce adds a rich, satisfying flavor. It’s simple to make, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, making it visually appealing as well. Each bite offers a blend of savory and cheesy goodness, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian delight. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to whip up this tasty casserole!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup crushed crackers (like Ritz)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis and yellow squashes. Add salt, pepper, and oregano, mixing well.
3. In another bowl, combine the sour cream, cheddar cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
4. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the squash mixture, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.
5. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Finish with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

8. Amish Fried Zucchini Slices

Amish Fried Zucchini Slices are a simple dish that brings out the fresh flavors of summer zucchini. Coated in a light breading and fried to golden perfection, these slices combine a satisfying crunch with a tender inside. They make for a perfect appetizer or side dish, and are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, making it accessible for anyone to whip up. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy a taste of Amish cooking at home!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Optional: your choice of dipping sauce (like ranch or marinara)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, mix flour with salt and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini slice first in the flour mixture, then in the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each slice is well-covered.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.
5. Fry the Slices: Carefully add the breaded zucchini slices in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

9. Amish Squash And Potato Soup

This Amish Squash and Potato Soup is a cozy dish, perfect for chilly days. The combination of tender squash and hearty potatoes creates a creamy texture that feels warm and inviting. It’s simple to make, and you can easily whip it up for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family.

The flavors meld beautifully, offering a slight sweetness from the squash that balances perfectly with the earthiness of the potatoes. Topped with fresh herbs, this soup is sure to be a happy addition to your meal rotation.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 2 cups yellow squash, diced
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the diced zucchinis, squash, and potatoes to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
5. Stir in the milk, and season with salt and pepper. Heat through before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme before enjoying your soup!

10. Amish Zucchini Noodles with Butter And Herbs

Amish Zucchini Noodles with Butter and Herbs is a simple dish that highlights the fresh flavors of summer produce. It’s light, savory, and incredibly straightforward to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

This recipe captures the essence of rustic cooking, combining tender zucchini noodles with rich butter and fragrant herbs. You’ll enjoy a slightly nutty flavor from the butter, complemented by the aromatic herbs. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up those garden zucchinis!

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Spiralize the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to make thin strips.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Zucchini Noodles: Toss the zucchini noodles into the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
4. Finish with Herbs: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve: Plate the zucchini noodles warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.