Stuffed Summer Squash



2 medium yellow summer squash, halved lengthwise
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons plus 1 1/2 teaspoons butter, divided
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons finely chopped pepperoni
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 tablespoons fine bread crumbs, divided
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
salt and pepper, to taste

1. Remove pulp from squash, leaving 1/4-inch thick shells. Chop pulp and reserve. Cook shells gently in hot oil in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. Turn shells once, cooking about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until just tender. Transfer to a rack, cool and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons butter to oil in skillet. Add squash pulp and onion. Cook until onion is tender. Stir in pepperoni, 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons bread crumbs, parsley, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide the cheese among the bottom halves of the hamburger buns. Transfer both halves of the buns to the broiler, open-faced, and toast until the cheese has melted and the top buns are toasted.
4. Fill shells with squash mixture. Mix remaining Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Sprinkle over squash. Dot with remaining butter. Broil squash 4 inches from heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown.

Yield: 4 servings