Summer Squash Gratin with Salsa Verde and Gruyère

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 400°F.

   Step 2

   Cut the squash into 1/8-inch-thick slices. If you’re using long zucchini-type summer squash, slice them on the diagonal. Toss the slices in a large bowl with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and let sit 10 minutes.

   Step 3

   Place the breadcrumbs in a bowl.

   Step 4

   Heat a small sauté pan over medium heat for 1 minute. Swirl in the butter and cook a few minutes, until it browns and smells nutty. Pour the brown butter over the breadcrumbs (being sure to scrape all the brown bits into the bowl with a rubber spatula). Wait a minute or so for the butter to cool, and toss well.

   Step 5

   Drain the squash and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the shallots, minced garlic, thyme, 1/2 cup salsa verde, and some pepper. Toss to combine, and add the cheese and half the butter-coated breadcrumbs. Toss again, and taste for seasoning. (The raw garlic will taste strong at this point but will be delicious when cooked.)

   Step 6

   Place the squash in a pretty 9-by-9-inch (or equivalent) gratin dish. Scatter the remaining breadcrumbs over the top, and bake 35 to 40 minutes, until the squash is tender and the top is crisp.