Stuffed Summer Pattypan Squash

Hi-Ya !

I didn't realize there was so many types of squash until a visit to my local Farmer's market last summer.  I came across a funny looking, but cute and intriguing vegetable....The Pattypan Squash !!
I had to ask the farmer who had a table full of these beauties on display, "what is that?"
The Pattypan squash is a summer squash known for its small size, round and hallow shape and "scalloped" edges. These cutie patooties come in colors of green, yellow and white.

At first glance this veggie looked a little intimidating as it reminded me of a childhood toy.
Do you see similarities ?

Well, no veggie was going to intimidate me or so I thought. After much thought (a couple days actually) I decided to stuff this adorable squash with cheese, garlic and bacon. 

Yes, bacon !!  How can you go wrong with bacon, right ?!?!?

Pattypan squash may look a little scary in its rare form, but they are easy to cook and are an all-around versatile summer vegetable. And not to forget to mention that they are DELISH !


Ingredients
Serving 1

• 1 small to medium pattypan squash
• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 slice of whole wheat bread, torn into pieces
• 2 slices of cooked bacon, chopped
• 2/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons of onions, chopped
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

1. Boil pattypan squash in pot of water for about 10 minutes or just until fork tender with a lil' resistance.
2. Remove from water and let cool.  Once cooled cut the top of the squash off and scoop out the inside and rough chop and set aside.
3. Cook bacon in non-stick skillet and remove to cool.  In the bacon drippings, sauté the onions and garlic for about a minute.  Add the scooped squash and cook for another 2-3 minutes, then add the soft bread crumbs, chopped bacon and Parmesan cheese. Stir until all combined.
4. Spray glass baking pan with extra virgin olive oil non-stick spray. Place pattypan squash in a dish and stuff with the bacon, garlicky and cheesy mixture. Beware: There will be an overflow, but don't fret...just stuff it all in there. 
5. Sprinkle a lil' more Parmesan cheese on top and cook in oven for about 15 minutes.
6. ENJOY !!