Summer squash blossoms are one of those rare seasonal ingredients that chefs and home cooks alike treasure for their beauty, tenderness, and mild flavor. These bright yellow-orange flowers are not only edible—they’re a gourmet delicacy, especially when stuffed and fried.

What Are Summer Squash Blossoms?

Squash blossoms are the edible flowers of summer squash plants, such as zucchini, crookneck, and pattypan. The plant produces both male and female flowers. While both are edible, male flowers are more commonly harvested for cooking, as they grow on thin stems and don’t develop into fruit.

These blossoms are trumpet-shaped, thin, and extremely delicate, with a mild, sweet, and slightly grassy flavor.

Where to Find Them

You won’t typically find squash blossoms in standard grocery stores. Instead, look for them:

• At farmers markets during late spring and summer
• In home gardens if you grow summer squash
• Occasionally at specialty grocers or organic markets

Pro tip: Harvest squash blossoms early in the morning when they’re fully open and at their freshest.

How to Prepare Squash Blossoms

Due to their fragility, squash blossoms require gentle handling. Here’s how to prep them:

1. Inspect for bugs: Gently shake out or rinse the flower to remove insects.
2. Remove the pistil or stamen: Especially important for larger blossoms.
3. Dry thoroughly: Pat with a paper towel or let air-dry before cooking.
4. Use quickly: They’re best the same day, but can be stored in the fridge wrapped in damp paper towels for up to 1 day.

Popular Ways to Cook Summer Squash Blossoms

The most beloved method? Fried and stuffed, like in this fried stuffed squash blossom recipe, where they’re filled with soft cheese and lightly battered.

Other great ways to enjoy squash blossoms:

• Stuffed with ricotta, goat cheese, or herbs, then baked
• Added to omelets, quesadillas, or frittatas
• Sautéed with garlic and olive oil
• Chopped raw into salads or served over pasta

These flowers are as versatile as they are beautiful.

Nutritional Benefits

Though not a significant source of calories, squash blossoms contain:

• Vitamins A and C
• Potassium
• Antioxidants from their vibrant pigment

They make a great low-calorie addition to summer meals.

Final Thoughts

Summer squash blossoms are a fleeting but flavorful gem of the warm months. Whether you’re picking them from your own garden or buying them fresh from a local farmer, they’re a delicious and elegant way to elevate any summer dish.