Squash Sailboats
SQUASH SAILBOATS
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A Fantastic Cheesy Summer Feast of Istanbul
What if a simple dish could bring the scent of the sea to your table? The first time I made these squash sailboats was for a summer gathering with friends. I wanted something playful, something that would surprise and delight. As soon as they saw the carved squash boats, topped with melted cheese and adorned with tiny little sails, they were transported to Istanbul’s breezy coasts.
Squash is the perfect summer vegetable—light, refreshing, and incredibly versatile. Combined with a rich and savoury multi-cheese filling, it creates a dish that’s both delicate and satisfying. The complementary flavours and whimsical presentation make this a showstopper for any summer table. Whether you’re hosting a sunlit brunch, a seaside picnic, or an elegant dinner, these little sailboats will set the scene for a fantastic feast.
Bon voyage on this tasty sailing adventure!
Ingredients
For the Squash
1 kg (~10) baby squashes
2 tbsp olive oil
10 toothpicks
For the Filling
150 g feta cheese, chopped
100 g goat cheese, crumbled
50 g mozzarella, shredded
5 slices cheddar cheese, cut into 0.5 cm-wide strips
8-10 sprigs dill, minced (or oregano as an alternative)
1 egg
½ tsp ground black pepper
Directions
PREPARE THE CHEESE FILLING
In a bowl, beat the egg with black pepper.
Add the feta and goat cheese, mixing until combined. Stir in the shredded mozzarella.
Chop the dill (or oregano) and fold it into the mixture.
Cover and refrigerate while preparing the squash.
PREPARE THE SQUASHES
Wash the squashes thoroughly. Score the skin in streaks for texture.
Cut off the stems and bottoms, then slice a strip lengthwise off opposing sides to create a stable base.
On one side, carve out a hollow space to form a boat shape. Reserve the removed squash flesh.
Coat the inside and outside of each squash boat with olive oil.
If desired, chop some of the reserved squash flesh and mix it into the cheese filling.
Fill each squash boat with the cheese mixture, then place cheddar strips on top.
ASSEMBLE THE SAILBOATS
Cut long, thin squash strips and attach them to toothpicks to create sails. Set aside (these will not be baked).
COOKING
Preheat the oven to 380°F (190°C).
Bake the squash boats for 18-20 minutes until tender and golden.
Remove from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes.
SERVING
Transfer to a serving plate. Insert the sails into the filling.
Serve warm and enjoy the charming presentation of your squash sailboats!
[Notes from the Kitchen]
Customize the cheese blend with any three soft cheeses you love.
If you prefer a softer texture, steam the squash before baking.
Swap dill for oregano for a different aromatic twist.
