Easy Holiday Main Dish-Squash Pie -

An easy main dish squash pie for Thanksgiving dinner is definitely breaking from tradition and can be difficult for a family.

When my husband heard our friend was making squash pie for Thanksgiving dinner, he was obviously not excited! In fact, he asked what he would be eating. Of course, we had other food, but it turns out that the beautiful, juicy, yummy pie was the big hit of the day!

Our friend had driven eight hours to spend the week with us and help as I continue to gain strength and mobility. June does not eat meat but she can sure pack some good tastes into common veggie and fruit dishes. Add good grains and cheeses and, wow, we did feast! (And, yes, the poor hungry man did get plenty of meat and taters!)

June came prepared to encourage and help in ways I would not have envisioned. My next article will include some of those hints for you. Right now, let’s bake that pie!

Ingredients for Summer Squash Pie

1 unbaked pastry shell (9″)

2 1/2 cups sliced zucchini (1/4″ slices)

1 tsp canola oil (or vegetable oil)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon thyme

1/4 tsp EACH garlic powder, paprika, pepper

2 large tomatoes sliced

1 cup (4 oz.) shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

3/4 cup mayonnaise

Line unpricked pastry shell with a double thickness of heavy duty foil. Bake in pre-heated oven at 450 degrees for 5 minutes. Remove foil; brush lightly with egg. Bake 5 minutes longer. Remove to a wire rack to cool. Reduce oven to 350.
In a large non-stick skillet, saute zucchini and yellow squash in oil for 10 minutes or until they are very tender. Sprinkle with seasonings; spoon into pastry shell. Top with sliced tomatoes. Combine the cheese and mayonnaise, spread over the top.
Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Refrigerate leftovers.

NOTE: Reduced fat or fat free mayonnaise is NOT recommended for this recipe. June used a gluten-free crust and it was delicious.

Let me hear from you if you try this or if you have a squash pie recipe to share. I am sold on new ways to enjoy eating healthier.

Hugs,