• First, make sure your squash is clean and the ends are trimmed. Then, cut them into even-sized pieces – this helps them cook uniformly.
• Toss these squash pieces in a large bowl with the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and any of the optional flavor boosters you'd like to use.

Roasted Patty Pan Squash (Oven Method)

• Preheat your oven to a cozy 450 degrees F (232 degrees C).
• Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure the cut sides face down for the best browning.
• Pop it in the oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes, until the squash is tender and beautifully golden brown on the bottom. You can stir halfway through if you prefer, but leaving them untouched creates a lovely sear!

Sautéed Patty Pan Squash (Stovetop Method)

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Carefully add the seasoned patty pan squash to the pan in a single layer, again with the cut sides down. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
• Let it sear undisturbed for 3-5 minutes until you see a gorgeous golden color on the bottom. Flip the pieces and continue to sear until the other side is also golden and tender.

Grilled Patty Pan Squash (Outdoor Grill or Grill Pan Method)

• Preheat your outdoor grill or a grill pan on the stovetop to medium-high heat for at least 10 minutes.
• Place the seasoned squash pieces, cut side down, directly onto the hot grill or grill pan in a single layer. Larger squash (around 4 inches) work best for direct grilling to prevent them from falling through the grates; consider a grill basket for smaller pieces.
• Grill for 3-4 minutes until clear grill marks appear. Flip and grill for another 3-4 minutes until the squash is tender and cooked through.

Air Fryer Patty Pan Squash Method

• Arrange the seasoned patty pan squash in your air fryer basket in a single layer, cut side down. If you have a lot of squash, work in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Air fry at 400 degrees F (204 degrees C) for 10-12 minutes. Be sure to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure all sides get wonderfully golden and crispy!