Summer Essentials Squash Onions And Burger Recipes

SUMMER ESSENTIALS: SQUASH, ONIONS, AND BURGER

Steps:

• PREP/PREPARE
• I do not usually cook with extra virgin olive oil; however, this is a low-heat situation, and I like the flavor the olive oil imparts to this recipe.
• Gather your ingredients (mise en place).
• Add the olive oil to a skillet over medium-low heat, and then add the beef.
• Chef's Note: Do not completely break up the beef, leave it in chunks.
• Throw in the onions, then add a bit of salt, and pepper.
• Cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
• Cook an additional 5 minutes, until they start to brown.
• While the onions and beef are cooking, add some spices. I made some suggestions in the ingredient list; however, add whatever you feel like. For example, in the Summer I go easy on the hot spices; but in the Winter, I kick up the heat level.
• Add the squash, and combine with the other ingredients.
• Add about a tablespoon of water to the pan, then cover, and allow to steam for about 5 minutes.
• Remove the cover, and continue to stir, until the squash softens, about 5 minutes.
• In this final cooking phase, check the spices, and add more... or not.
• PLATE/PRESENT
• Serve with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan, and a few pieces of crusty buttered bread. Enjoy.
• Keep the faith, and keep cooking.

YELLOW SQUASH PATTIES

Steps:

• Place the squash and onion in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and drain about 30 minutes, until no longer moist.
• In a bowl, mix the squash and onion, flour, cornmeal, egg, and cheese. Season with pepper.
• Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop squash mixture by heaping tablespoonfuls into the skillet, and cook 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.