Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Summer squash is one of the most versatile vegetables, offering a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re aiming to reduce carbs or simply want to enjoy fresh, in-season produce, summer squash is a great low-carb choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
From savory casseroles to light salads and even crispy fritters, the possibilities are endless.
This collection of 26+ summer squash low-carb recipes will inspire you to make the most of this vibrant vegetable while keeping your meals healthy, satisfying, and delicious.
Let’s dive into these easy-to-make, flavor-packed recipes that are perfect for any meal or occasion.
26+ Flavorful Summer Squash Low-Carb Recipes for Healthy Meals
Summer squash is an exceptional choice for those looking to enjoy a low-carb diet without sacrificing flavor.
With these 26+ delicious and diverse recipes, you’ll never feel limited by your low-carb goals.
From creamy casseroles to fresh salads and everything in between, summer squash proves to be both a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal plan.
Whether you’re looking to lighten up your summer dinners or simply experiment with fresh ingredients, these recipes are a fantastic place to start.
Embrace the bounty of summer squash and discover just how easy it can be to stick to your low-carb lifestyle while enjoying incredible flavors.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto is a fresh, light dish that swaps traditional pasta for zucchini noodles, creating a low-carb alternative that still satisfies.
The homemade pesto, with its aromatic basil, garlic, and olive oil, infuses the noodles with rich, herby flavors, while the zucchini remains tender yet crisp, offering a refreshing texture.
This dish is perfect for a summer lunch or a light dinner, delivering a burst of flavor while keeping things healthy and low-carb.
Top it with Parmesan cheese or your favorite nuts for a little crunch and extra richness.
Summer Squash Fritters
Summer Squash Fritters are a crispy, golden treat that’s perfect for a low-carb snack or side dish.
The squash is grated and combined with eggs and almond flour, creating a fluffy interior that contrasts with the crisp exterior, while garlic and onion powder give the fritters a savory punch.
These fritters are ideal as a quick appetizer or a flavorful side to accompany your main dish.
Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce, or enjoy them on their own for a satisfying, guilt-free bite.
Squash Gratin
Squash Gratin is a creamy, cheesy dish where thinly sliced summer squash is baked with a rich layer of melted cheese and a hint of garlic.
The squash becomes tender and melts in your mouth, while the cheese adds a satisfying depth of flavor, making each bite indulgent yet low in carbs.
This gratin is perfect for a comforting, yet light, side dish to complement any summer meal.
Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish for a filling dinner.
Sautéed Summer Squash with Garlic
Sautéed Summer Squash with Garlic is a simple, yet flavorful, dish where squash is cooked in olive oil with aromatic garlic, creating a quick and healthy low-carb option.
The squash becomes slightly caramelized as it cooks, absorbing the rich flavors of the garlic and olive oil, offering a savory, satisfying side.
This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight, as it comes together in minutes and pairs beautifully with any protein.
Serve it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced, low-carb meal.
Squash Boats with Ground Turkey
Squash Boats with Ground Turkey offer a creative low-carb twist on stuffed vegetables, using summer squash as the perfect vessel for a savory turkey filling.
The squash softens as it bakes, while the ground turkey is seasoned with spices and herbs, making each bite flavorful and hearty.
These squash boats are an excellent choice for a low-carb dinner or a healthy meal prep idea, packed with protein and fresh veggies.
Enjoy them with a side salad or eat them as a standalone dish for a complete meal.
Summer Squash Soup
Summer Squash Soup is a smooth, velvety soup that highlights the natural sweetness of squash while remaining low in carbs.
Blended with onions, garlic, and a touch of cream, the squash becomes the star of this dish, offering a comforting and light flavor profile.
This soup is perfect for a summer evening or a light lunch, and its creamy texture will make you feel like you’re indulging—without the carbs.
Serve it with a few crispy low-carb crackers or enjoy it as is for a satisfying and healthy bowl.
Squash Casserole
Squash Casserole is a rich and cheesy dish where summer squash is layered with a blend of cheeses and a touch of cream, creating a comforting, low-carb delight.
The squash softens beautifully, soaking up the creamy sauce while the cheese forms a golden crust on top, adding both texture and richness.
This casserole is perfect for a family dinner, offering a comforting and satisfying side dish to complement grilled meats or as a stand-alone meal.
Serve it with a fresh salad for a balanced, low-carb dinner that feels indulgent but won’t derail your healthy eating.
Squash Stir-Fry
Squash Stir-Fry is a quick and vibrant dish where summer squash is sautéed with colorful vegetables and a dash of soy sauce, creating a low-carb, savory stir-fry.
The squash retains its crispness while absorbing the flavors of the stir-fry sauce, complemented by the sweetness of bell peppers and the savory depth of onions.
This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a healthy and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled chicken or tofu.
Enjoy the crunch of the vegetables and the savory sauce that ties it all together.
Squash Noodles with Marinara
Squash Noodles with Marinara is a perfect low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, where spiralized summer squash takes center stage in a rich, tangy marinara sauce.
The noodles are tender and absorb the tomato sauce wonderfully, while the spices and herbs in the marinara sauce bring a deliciously comforting flavor to each bite.
This dish is great for anyone looking to cut carbs but still crave the familiar warmth of pasta and sauce.
Top with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
Squash and Bacon Skillet
Squash and Bacon Skillet is a smoky and savory dish that pairs crispy bacon with sautéed summer squash for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
The squash absorbs the smoky richness of the bacon while retaining its fresh, mild sweetness, making every bite satisfying.
This is the perfect side dish or a quick low-carb meal, packed with protein and healthy fats.
Serve it alongside a fresh salad or enjoy it as a filling standalone dinner.
Grilled Squash Salad
Grilled Squash Salad is a light yet satisfying salad featuring tender, slightly charred summer squash, tossed with greens and a tangy vinaigrette.
The grill adds a smoky flavor to the squash, complementing the freshness of the greens and the tangy dressing, making each bite perfectly balanced.
This salad is perfect for a summer dinner or a refreshing lunch, offering a low-carb, nutritious option that’s full of flavor.
Pair it with grilled chicken or enjoy it as a standalone vegetarian dish.
Squash and Sausage Skillet
Squash and Sausage Skillet combines savory sausage with tender summer squash in a simple yet flavorful one-pan meal that’s low in carbs.
The sausage infuses the squash with its rich, spiced flavor while the squash maintains its texture, creating a hearty and satisfying dish.
This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, offering protein and veggies in one skillet, and it pairs beautifully with a side of cauliflower rice or steamed greens.
Enjoy it as a filling low-carb meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor.
Squash Chips
Squash Chips are a crunchy, low-carb snack that transforms thinly sliced summer squash into crispy, flavorful chips, perfect for munching guilt-free.
The squash crisps up beautifully in the oven, with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of olive oil enhancing its natural sweetness.
These chips are great for serving alongside a dip or as a healthy snack for when you’re craving something crunchy.
They’re simple to prepare and offer a satisfying alternative to traditional chips, making them perfect for any low-carb diet.
Squash and Eggplant Bake
Squash and Eggplant Bake is a savory casserole that layers summer squash and eggplant with a sprinkle of cheese and a dash of herbs, baked to golden perfection.
The squash and eggplant become tender as they cook, absorbing the flavors of the garlic and spices, while the cheese adds a rich, creamy texture.
This low-carb dish is perfect for a hearty dinner, offering a satisfying mix of vegetables in a cheesy, flavorful base.
Enjoy it with a simple side salad or as a light yet filling vegetarian meal.
Squash Pizza Bites
Squash Pizza Bites offer a low-carb twist on traditional pizza, using roasted squash slices as a base for your favorite toppings.
The squash is tender yet holds its shape well, making it an excellent foundation for marinara sauce, cheese, and any toppings you desire.
These bites are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer, bringing all the flavors of pizza without the carbs.
Serve them at your next gathering or enjoy them as a fun and easy weeknight dinner.
Squash Soup
Squash Soup is a velvety, comforting bowl of goodness that blends summer squash with a creamy base for a rich and satisfying low-carb soup.
The squash softens and melds with the cream, creating a smooth texture and a natural sweetness that is perfectly balanced with seasonings.
This soup is perfect for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, offering comfort in a bowl without the extra carbs.
Top it with a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs for added flavor and color.
Stuffed Squash
Stuffed Squash is a hearty, low-carb dish where summer squash is hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, herbs, and spices.
The squash absorbs all the delicious flavors of the filling, making every bite juicy and satisfying.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner, offering a complete meal with protein and vegetables all in one.
Serve it with a fresh green salad for a healthy, filling, and low-carb option.
Squash Salad
Squash Salad is a refreshing, light dish that combines roasted summer squash with a tangy vinaigrette, creating a healthy, low-carb side or light meal.
The roasted squash adds a smoky flavor, which pairs perfectly with the crisp greens and bright vinaigrette.
This salad is perfect for a summer lunch or as a side to grilled meats, offering a fresh and healthy addition to any meal.
Top it with feta or goat cheese for a creamy contrast and extra flavor.
Squash Stir-Fry
Squash Stir-Fry is a vibrant, low-carb dish where summer squash is quickly sautéed with other fresh vegetables, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
The squash retains a slight crunch, absorbing the savory stir-fry sauce, while other veggies like bell peppers add sweetness and texture.
This is a perfect quick meal for busy nights, full of fresh vegetables and healthy fats, offering a satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with any protein.
It’s light, flavorful, and easily adaptable to your taste preferences—add more spice or protein as desired!
Squash Casserole
Squash Casserole is a warm, comforting dish where tender squash is combined with a creamy, cheesy sauce and baked to perfection.
The squash soaks up the rich flavors of the cheese and spices, while the top becomes golden and bubbly, making for a satisfying, low-carb meal.
This casserole is ideal as a hearty side dish or a standalone meal, offering a comforting, low-carb alternative to traditional casseroles.
Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy it as a cozy dinner that’s both filling and nutritious.
Squash Boats
Squash Boats are a fun and creative low-carb dish where summer squash is hollowed out and filled with a savory mix of ground meat, cheese, and herbs.
The squash softens as it bakes, creating a perfect vessel for the flavorful filling, while the cheese melts beautifully on top.
This is a great dish for meal prep or a family dinner, offering a healthy, filling meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Serve with a light salad or enjoy it as a standalone dinner for a tasty and nutritious option.
Grilled Squash
Grilled Squash is a simple yet flavorful side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of summer squash, enhanced by a smoky char from the grill.
The squash is lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grilled to perfection, maintaining its crisp texture while developing a smoky aroma.
Perfect for any summer BBQ or as a quick side to grilled meats, this low-carb dish is full of flavor and super easy to make.
Enjoy it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.
Squash Fritters
Squash Fritters are a crispy, golden delight where summer squash is paired with eggs and a light flour coating, creating a delicious, low-carb snack.
Each fritter has a perfect crunch on the outside, with a soft, savory center, enhanced by subtle seasonings like garlic and onion powder.
These fritters make for an ideal appetizer or side dish, and their versatility allows you to dip them in your favorite sauce, whether tangy or creamy.
They’re an easy and fun way to incorporate more veggies into your diet, while still satisfying those savory cravings.
Squash Ribbons
Squash Ribbons are a creative, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, using thinly sliced summer squash to create delicate ribbons that are light and flavorful.
The ribbons soak up your favorite sauce, whether it’s a rich tomato marinara or a creamy Alfredo, providing a fresh and satisfying bite without the carbs.
This dish is perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carb intake while still enjoying the comforting flavors of pasta.
Pair it with grilled shrimp or roasted chicken for a well-rounded, healthy meal.
Squash and Shrimp Skillet
Squash and Shrimp Skillet is a quick and savory low-carb dish where succulent shrimp are paired with tender summer squash, all sautéed together in a skillet with garlic and herbs.
The shrimp cook to a perfect tenderness while the squash adds a light, fresh contrast, absorbing all the flavorful juices in the pan.
This dish is ideal for a fast weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, offering a great balance of protein and veggies.
Serve it with a side of cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying and low-carb meal.
Squash and Avocado Salad
Squash and Avocado Salad is a refreshing, light dish where roasted summer squash is combined with creamy avocado, creating a perfect balance of textures.
The squash’s caramelized edges complement the soft, buttery avocado, while the simple dressing adds just the right amount of tanginess to bring it all together.
This salad is perfect for a low-carb lunch or as a vibrant side to grilled meats.
Its freshness and satisfying ingredients make it a great option for warm summer days or casual gatherings.
Conclusion
Embracing a low-carb lifestyle doesn’t have to mean giving up your favorite dishes.
Summer squash, with its mild taste and endless adaptability, opens up a world of possibilities for anyone looking to eat healthier without feeling deprived.
The 26+ recipes shared here offer an exciting range of options—from quick and easy dishes to hearty meals that’ll satisfy your cravings.
So whether you’re a squash enthusiast or new to this veggie, there’s something here for everyone.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness of summer squash in every low-carb bite!