Summer Squash And Tomatoes
A vibrant, cheesy summer casserole featuring tender squash, sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and melted cheddar, perfect for a quick, satisfying vegetarian meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place butter, onion, squash, salt, pepper, and basil in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and microwave on High for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomatoes and microwave on High for 2 to 6 minutes.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese and let stand several minutes until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a burst of flavor, try adding minced garlic or a splash of lemon juice to the mix. If you don't have fresh basil, oregano or thyme can work in a pinch. Consider using a mix of squash varieties for added color and texture. This dish can also be made with other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a side with grilled chicken or fish for a light summer meal. It pairs beautifully with Lemon Butter Sauce(For Fish) for a delightful contrast. This dish can also be enjoyed on its own or served over cooked quinoa or rice for a vegetarian entrée.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Squash And Tomatoes contains roughly 1689 calories, with 64g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 138g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (154% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (138% of the Daily Value), and protein (128% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, you can use mozzarella for a milder flavor or Parmesan for a nuttier taste. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to customize the dish.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the unsalted butter with plant-based butter or olive oil. For the cheese, you can use a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before microwaving. Just add the tomatoes and cheese before heating to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).