There were some really beautiful yellow crook-neck squashes at the farmer’s market this weekend so I bought some.  Fortunately, I had found this recipe a few weeks ago and gave it a try this weekend.

Very pretty ...  and delicious, too.  The saffron and mint really gives it a subtle, interesting flavor.

A Gilding of Shrimp & Saffron Rice
from Eating Well magazine

Serves 4 (1.5 cups saute & 1 cup rice each)

2 1/2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/4-1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
1 cup long-grain brown rice
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 medium yellow summer squash, quartered lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
1 pound raw shrimp (21-25 per pound), peeled and deveined
1/3 cup tightly packed fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Freshly ground pepper to taste

1. Bring water, 1/2 teaspoon salt and saffron to taste to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rice, return to a boil, cover and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, 40 to 45 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

2. About 10 minutes before the rice is done, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add squash and cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender (do not brown), 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in shrimp and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Stir in mint and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in lemon juice; remove from heat. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper. Serve over the rice.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 350 calories; 10 g fat (2 g sat, 6 g mono); 168 mg cholesterol; 42 g carbohydrate; 24 g protein; 5 g fiber; 790 mg sodium; 654 mg potassium.