Creamed Ribbons is a comforting side dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to any meal. Made with tender ribbons of squash or zucchini, this recipe combines creamy textures with subtle flavors that everyone will love. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy fresh vegetables in a whole new way.
We love how easy it is to prepare and how versatile it can be—perfect alongside grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, creamed ribbons add a deliciously creamy and satisfying element to the table. Let’s dive into this classic recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Creamed Ribbons, we carefully select fresh ingredients that bring out the rich, creamy texture and subtle flavors this dish is known for. Below are the essentials broken down for clarity and ease of preparation.
For the Ribbons
- 3 medium-sized zucchinis or yellow squash, scrubbed and sliced into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler or mandoline
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for sautéing
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cream Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Use high-fat for richness |
| Cream cheese | 2 ounces | Softened for smoothness |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | Enhances flavor depth |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 teaspoon | Optional but recommended |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor
- Light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to deepen savory notes
- A few toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added texture
With these ingredients ready, we’ll craft the creamy, tender ribbons that make our Creamed Ribbons irresistible.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our delicious Creamed Ribbons recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool will help us achieve the ideal texture and flavor, ensuring our tender squash ribbons are creamy and well-cooked.
Essential Tools for Creamed Ribbons
- Vegetable Peeler or Mandoline Slicer
We use this to create thin, uniform ribbons of zucchini or yellow squash. A mandoline is ideal for consistent thickness, but a sturdy vegetable peeler works great too.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
A wide heavy-bottom skillet allows us to evenly cook the ribbons and gently simmer them in the cream sauce without overcrowding.
- Mixing Bowls
We need at least one medium bowl for tossing the squash ribbons with seasonings before cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements of butter, cream, and seasonings ensure the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
For stirring gently while cooking to prevent breaking the ribbons and to integrate the cream sauce smoothly.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
For chopping the onion and optional garnishes such as parsley or toasted nuts.
Optional Equipment to Enhance Preparation
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fine Mesh Strainer | To drain excess liquid from ribbons if desired |
| Garlic Press | For fresh garlic to increase aroma and flavor |
| Ovenproof Dish | For finishing the dish under a broiler with cheese topping |
These tools help us maintain control over the cooking process, bringing out the silky, flavorful quality that makes Creamed Ribbons a standout side dish.
“Using the right equipment transforms simple ingredients into a dish with exceptional texture and taste.”
Let’s gather our equipment before starting so every step goes smoothly and the results are consistently excellent.
Prep Work
To create the perfect Creamed Ribbons, proper preparation is key. Let’s ensure each step is precise so our dish is flavorful and has the ideal texture.
Preparing the Ribbons
- Choose fresh zucchini or yellow squash that are firm and without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Wash each squash thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues.
- Using a sharp vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer, gently slice the squash lengthwise into thin, even ribbons about 1/8 inch thick.
- If the ribbons are long, cut them into 3- to 4-inch lengths for easier handling and serving.
- Place the ribbons in a colander and lightly salt them. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with paper towels to ensure the sauce remains creamy and not watery.
Preparing the Sauce Ingredients
Gather the cream sauce ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process:
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Measured and softened |
| Chopped onion | 1/4 cup | Finely chopped |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Measured |
| Cream cheese | 2 ounces | Softened |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Measured |
| Fresh thyme | 1 teaspoon | Leaves stripped |
- Measure all ingredients accurately before starting to cook.
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for smooth blending.
- Finely chop the onion to release even flavor distribution in the sauce.
- Strip fresh thyme leaves from stems to avoid bitterness.
By organizing our sauce ingredients and preparing the ribbons carefully, we set the stage for the luscious, velvety texture that makes this Creamed Ribbons Recipe truly memorable.
Directions
Let’s walk through the steps to create perfectly tender and luscious Creamed Ribbons. We’ll start by cooking the squash ribbons, prepare the rich cream sauce, and then combine them for a dish bursting with flavor and texture.
Cooking the Ribbons
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Add the chopped onion (about ½ cup finely chopped) once the butter melts and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Drain the salted squash ribbons completely and pat them dry using paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
- Add the squash ribbons in batches to the skillet. Stir gently to coat with butter and onion mixture.
- Cook the ribbons for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should become tender but not mushy.
- Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Making the Cream Sauce
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until smooth:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 4 ounces |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 teaspoon, finely chopped |
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- The sauce should be velvety and pourable, without lumps. Adjust cream quantity slightly if needed.
Combining the Ribbons and Sauce
- Once the squash ribbons are tender, lower the heat to medium-low.
- Pour the cream sauce over the cooked ribbons in the skillet.
- Gently toss or stir to evenly coat the ribbons with the creamy sauce.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and meld with the vegetables.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or fresh thyme if desired.
- Optional garnish: sprinkle with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or toasted nuts to enhance texture and flavor.
By following these steps, our Creamed Ribbons will achieve a perfect balance of creamy richness and tender vegetable goodness.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Creamed Ribbons into a memorable meal component, we can pair them thoughtfully and present them beautifully. Here are some serving ideas to complement the delicate creaminess and tender texture of this dish:
Pairing with Main Courses
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, allowing the crisp smokiness to contrast with the rich cream sauce.
- Complement pan-seared salmon for a fresh and elegant dinner option.
- Pair with roast pork tenderloin, where the ribbons’ subtle sweetness balances the savory meat.
- For a classic Southern vibe, serve with smoked brisket or barbecue ribs.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
- Enjoy as a stand-alone side with a seasonal garden salad and crusty artisan bread.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch and protein.
Garnishing and Presentation
Enhance visual appeal and flavor with these finishing touches:
| Garnish | Purpose | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | Bright color and herbal note | Finely chopped and sprinkled on top just before serving |
| Grated Parmesan | Adds umami depth | Lightly dust over the ribbons after plating |
| Toasted nuts | Adds texture and nutty flavor | Scatter over the dish for contrasting crunch |
| Crispy bacon bits | Savory crunch | Sprinkle sparingly for smoky accent |
Serving Temperature
- Serve the creamed ribbons warm for the best cream sauce texture.
- If preparing in advance, gently reheat over low heat to maintain creaminess without drying out.
Portion Suggestions
For balancing the meal, consider these portion sizes:
| Dish Type | Portion Size per Person |
|---|---|
| Side Dish | 1 cup |
| Light Main (Vegetarian) | 1.5 to 2 cups |
By thoughtfully pairing our Creamed Ribbons and using flavorful garnishes, we can create a stunning side dish that elevates any meal with its rich texture and delicate flavors.
Storage and Leftovers
Proper storage is essential to keep our Creamed Ribbons fresh and delicious for later enjoyment. Follow these steps to store and reheat leftovers effectively:
Cooling and Storing
- Allow the Creamed Ribbons to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the storage container which can make the dish watery.
- Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Use a shallow container to help the dish cool evenly and quickly.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store Creamed Ribbons in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the container tightly sealed to prevent absorption of other flavors or odors.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Use freezer-safe container, thaw before reheating |
Freezing
To extend storage, freeze Creamed Ribbons:
- Place leftovers in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Remove as much air as possible to reduce freezer burn.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat Creamed Ribbons over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess.
- Alternatively, microwave in a covered microwave-safe dish, stirring every 30 seconds for even heating.
- Add a splash of heavy cream or milk if the texture thickens too much during reheating.
“Best served warm for optimum flavor and creamy texture.”
By following these steps, we ensure our Creamed Ribbons stay flavorful and enjoyable whether we eat them fresh or later.
Conclusion
Creamed Ribbons bring a comforting touch to any meal with their creamy texture and fresh flavors. They’re simple to prepare yet versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes, making them a must-try for both novice and seasoned cooks.
By following the right steps for preparation, cooking, and storage, we can enjoy this Southern classic anytime. Whether served fresh or reheated, Creamed Ribbons promise a deliciously satisfying side that’s sure to become a favorite in our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamed Ribbons?
Creamed Ribbons is a Southern side dish made from thinly sliced squash or zucchini cooked in a creamy sauce with butter, onions, and cream cheese. It’s tender, flavorful, and often served alongside grilled meats or as a vegetarian option.
What ingredients do I need to make Creamed Ribbons?
You’ll need fresh zucchinis or yellow squash, unsalted butter, chopped onion, heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, fresh thyme, and optional garnishes like parsley, Parmesan cheese, and toasted nuts.
How do I prepare the squash for Creamed Ribbons?
Wash the squash well and slice it into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer. Salt the ribbons to draw out excess moisture before cooking to ensure a tender texture.
Can Creamed Ribbons be served with meat?
Yes, Creamed Ribbons pairs well with grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, roast pork tenderloin, and smoked brisket, complementing their rich flavors beautifully.
Is Creamed Ribbons suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely. Creamed Ribbons can be served as a vegetarian side dish, especially when paired with a garden salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
How should I store leftover Creamed Ribbons?
Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 1 month.
What is the best way to reheat Creamed Ribbons?
Reheat on low to medium heat on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture and stir gently until warmed through.
Can I customize the garnishes for Creamed Ribbons?
Yes, you can use fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, toasted nuts, or crispy bacon bits as garnishes to add extra flavor and visual appeal.