Summer Squash Tomato Casserole
A vibrant summer casserole featuring tender squash, ripe tomatoes, and sweet onions, baked with crunchy bread crumbs and melted cheese. Perfect for a light, flavorful vegetarian main or side dish, it captures the essence of seasonal freshness and comforting baked goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the summer squash into halves and remove the seeds.
- Layer the squash halves with sliced tomatoes and onions in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the mixture with salt, pepper, bread crumbs, and grated cheese.
- Top with bits of butter.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions before layering them in the casserole. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the dry bread crumbs with cooked quinoa or add a dollop of sour cream. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the dish further, aligning with the essence of vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Summer Squash Tomato Casserole is a delightful main dish, especially in summer. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or grilled proteins for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Herb Scalloped Potatoes, creating a colorful and satisfying dinner plate that showcases seasonal produce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Squash Tomato Casserole contains roughly 306 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1633mg per serving (71% 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 vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other summer vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even eggplant. Just ensure that the cooking time remains the same, as these vegetables will also cook down nicely.
Is there a gluten-free option for the bread crumbs?
Yes, you can replace traditional bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Alternatively, ground oats or almond flour can also work as a great substitute while still providing texture.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make the casserole heartier, consider adding cooked lentils or beans between the layers. This not only adds protein but also enhances the flavor and texture, making it a satisfying vegetarian meal.
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).