Mollie Katzen’s “Get Cooking: 150 Simple Recipes to Get You Started in the Kitchen” (HarperStudio) urges beginners to take on her challenge with easy recipes. Among them is this acorn squash entree.

Zucchini is a popular pick for home gardeners. It is relatively easy to grow, can yield a bountiful harvest, and, of course, is delicious when used to prepare a range of appetizers, sides, and entrées ...