Summertime Casseroles

When we think of casseroles, we typically think of cooler weather and “comfort food.”  Fall and winter weather casseroles are designed to fill you up and keep you warm.  Aside from the taste, the other thing I really like about casseroles is how easy they are to prepare and how you can incorporate multiple flavors in one dish.  It’s this reason that I started searching for summertime casseroles I could serve my family that would use in season produce.  I found some really terrific options that are lighter than their cooler season counterparts, but still meet my criteria of flavor, incorporating multiple ingredients, and ease of preparation.
This Caprese Quinoa Bake makes the perfect side dish for summer.  Fresh tomatoes off the vine, shallots, garlic, fresh basil, quinoa and mozzarella are used in this flavorful recipe.  The veggies are packed with valuable vitamins and the quinoa will provide additional fiber and protein to your meal–this dish is full of nutrition.

Photo courtesy of Domesticate Me
Sweet Corn and Zucchini Pie takes two summer favorites and combines them into one perfect dish.  This recipe can be served as a vegetarian main meal with a side salad or as a side dish in smaller portions.  In addition to the corn and zucchini, mushrooms, onion, eggs, cheese (use a reduced fat version to lighten the recipe) and herbs are blended to create this amazing recipe.  Even though this casserole looks impressive, don’t be deceived–it’s actually really simple to prepare.

Photo courtesy of Pinch of Yum
This Squash Casserole dish is one of my kids’ favorite recipes.  Seriously!  They love when they see I’m making it and I love that it’s so easy to throw together.  I use yellow squash in the recipe, but I’m sure that zucchini would also work well.  Onion, squash, garlic, cheese (I use reduced fat), eggs and corn flakes are combined to create a casserole that’s perfect every, single time.

Photo courtesy of My Blessed Life
Give these summer casseroles a try using in season produce for the freshest flavor.  They’re great to bring along to your next block party or barbeque.  I’ll be back next week with some fun, culinary ideas to keep your little ones busy in the kitchen.
See all posts