Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Recipe

This Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet recipe is a quick and easy dish bursting with the fresh flavors of summer. Combining tender zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and sweet yellow squash, it's a colorful and healthy side dish or light main course that's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Recipe

The ingredients required for this recipe are commonly found in most supermarkets. However, if you're not familiar with yellow squash, it's a summer squash that's similar in shape to zucchini but has a slightly sweeter flavor. Vidalia onions, a type of sweet onion, may also be a new ingredient for you. If you can't find them, you can substitute with another type of sweet onion.

Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Ingredients

Salted butter: This is used to sauté the onions, zucchini, and yellow squash, adding a rich flavor.

Vidalia onion: A sweet variety of onion that adds a mild and sweet flavor to the dish.

Zucchini: A versatile summer squash known for its mild flavor and tender texture.

Yellow squash: Similarly to zucchini, it's a summer squash with a slightly sweeter flavor.

Roma tomatoes: Known for their firm flesh and low moisture content, perfect for cooking.

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning the dish to enhance its overall flavor.

One reader, Cosmo Gass says:

This tomato zucchini squash skillet recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh veggies and the savory flavors from the skillet make it a delightful dish. It's easy to make and bursting with flavor. A must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious meal.

Cosmo Gass

Techniques Required for Making Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet

How to sauté the onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and cook the onions for 5 to 8 minutes until they are translucent.

How to cook the zucchini and yellow squash: After sautéing the onions, stir in the zucchini and yellow squash. Cook the vegetables for 10 to 15 minutes until they are tender.

How to cook the tomatoes: Once the zucchini and yellow squash are tender, mix in the tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they start to break down.

How to season with kosher salt and black pepper: After the vegetables are cooked, season the dish with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

How to serve: Serve the tomato zucchini squash skillet warm and enjoy!

How To Make Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet

This purely vegetarian skillet recipe combines fresh, earthy flavors from zucchini and squash with added sweetness from Vidalia onions, for a tasty side!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspsalted butter,or more as needed
1Vidalia onion,cut into bite-size pieces
2zucchini,cut into bite-size pieces
1yellow squash,cut into bite-size pieces
4roma tomatoes,(plum), cut into bite-size pieces
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir the onion in the melted butter for 5 to 8 minutes, until translucent.
Stir in the zucchini and yellow squash. Cook the vegetables until tender for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Mix in the tomatoes and cook for about 5 more minutes until they start to break down. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 125.52kcal
Fat: 3.53g
Saturated Fat: 1.96g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.79g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.30g
Carbohydrates: 23.62g
Fiber: 4.35g
Sugar: 8.24g
Protein: 3.40g
Cholesterol: 7.63mg
Sodium: 825.81mg
Calcium: 80.03mg
Potassium: 890.21mg
Iron: 1.61mg
Vitamin A: 79.80µg
Vitamin C: 41.86mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Preparing Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet

When cooking the zucchini and yellow squash, it's important to not overcook them as they can become mushy. To maintain a firm texture, keep an eye on them and test their doneness by piercing them with a fork. If it goes through with a little resistance, they are perfectly cooked.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Skillet Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and store the onions, zucchini, yellow squash, and tomatoes in advance to save time during the cooking process.

One-pan wonder: Use a large skillet to cook all the vegetables in one pan, minimizing cleanup and saving time.

Even cuts: Cut the zucchini, yellow squash, and tomatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking and a consistent texture in the dish.

Multi-task: While the onions are cooking, prepare the other vegetables to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Season as you go: Season the vegetables with salt and pepper as you add them to the skillet, ensuring that each layer is well-seasoned and saving time on additional seasoning at the end.

Quick serve: Serve the tomato zucchini squash skillet directly from the skillet to save time on transferring the dish to a serving platter.

Substitute Ingredients For Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Recipe

salted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish while also being a healthier alternative to butter.
vidalia onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly stronger flavor compared to Vidalia onions, but they can still work well in this recipe and provide a good base flavor.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash can be a great substitute for zucchini as it has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement in this recipe.
yellow squash - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can be used as a substitute for yellow squash, as it has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement in this recipe.
roma tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be a great substitute for Roma tomatoes, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and a pop of color to the dish.

Best Way to Present Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet

Elevate the plating: Arrange the cooked tomato zucchini squash in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each ingredient is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped basil and parsley over the skillet to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction: Create an elegant design on the plate using a balsamic reduction to add a touch of acidity and depth of flavor to the dish.
Add a sprinkle of parmesan: Grate some high-quality parmesan cheese over the skillet to provide a savory and nutty element to the presentation.
Serve in individual ramekins: For a sophisticated touch, transfer the cooked vegetables into individual ramekins before serving, adding a sense of refinement to the dish.

Storing and Freezing Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet

Let the tomato zucchini squash skillet cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled skillet contents to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option:
- Divide the cooled vegetable mixture into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, where they will keep well for up to 3 months.
To reheat the frozen tomato zucchini squash skillet:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed mixture to a skillet and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and any excess liquid has evaporated.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen mixture directly in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
If the reheated vegetable mixture appears too dry, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help reconstitute the dish and maintain its original texture.

How to Reheat Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Leftovers

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat: place the leftover tomato zucchini squash in a skillet and stir occasionally until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the vegetables and allows any excess liquid to evaporate.
Microwave reheating: transfer the leftovers to a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the vegetables to become mushy.
Oven reheating: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tomato zucchini squash in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to slightly crisp up.
Incorporate into a new dish: use the leftover tomato zucchini squash as a filling for omelets, quiches, or frittatas. You can also add it to pasta dishes, sandwiches, or wraps for a quick and tasty meal.
Cold serving: if you enjoy the flavors of the dish chilled, consider serving the leftover tomato zucchini squash as a cold salad. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing and healthy meal.

Interesting Fact About Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet

Zucchini squash skillet is a versatile dish that can be easily customized with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Is Making Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet at Home Cost-Effective?

This tomato zucchini squash skillet recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are affordable and readily available, making it a budget-friendly option. With the use of seasonal vegetables and minimal additional ingredients, this dish is a great choice for those looking to save money without compromising on flavor. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its simplicity, taste, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it an excellent choice for a delicious and economical meal.

Is This Skillet Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This tomato zucchini squash skillet recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish. The recipe features a variety of vegetables, including zucchini, yellow squash, and tomatoes, which are all low in calories and high in essential vitamins and minerals. Zucchini and yellow squash are excellent sources of vitamin C, while tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. The use of butter in the recipe is minimal, and the dish is seasoned with just salt and pepper, keeping the sodium content in check.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use olive oil instead of butter to sauté the vegetables, as it is a healthier source of fat
Add more colorful vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers or carrots, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Incorporate lean protein sources, like grilled chicken or tofu, to make it a more balanced meal
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or garlic, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt
Serve the vegetable skillet over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and complex carbohydrates

Editor's Opinion on This Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Recipe

This tomato zucchini squash skillet recipe is a delightful combination of fresh, vibrant flavors. The use of butter and onions adds a rich, savory base, while the zucchini, yellow squash, and tomatoes provide a wonderful medley of textures and tastes. The simplicity of the dish allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through, making it a perfect side dish or light meal. The cooking times are spot on, ensuring the vegetables are cooked to perfection. Overall, this recipe is a fantastic way to showcase the beauty of seasonal produce in a simple and delicious manner.

Enhance Your Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan coating.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey glaze for the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: A colorful and flavorful medley of grilled vegetables marinated in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a delicious side dish.

Similar Recipes to Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts: This recipe combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, creating a delicious and indulgent side dish.

Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots: These honey balsamic glazed carrots are a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making them a delightful addition to any meal.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The bright and zesty flavors of lemon and garlic complement the tender roasted asparagus in this simple yet elegant side dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a rich and flavorful mixture, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with this classic Italian dish. The combination of crispy bread, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil creates a burst of fresh flavors with every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey goodness when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a creamy, luscious strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to savor the flavors of fresh, seasonal produce. The combination of zucchini and yellow squash brings a delightful crunch, while the roma tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. The use of salted butter infuses a rich, savory taste, and the addition of vidalia onion lends a subtle sweetness. With the perfect balance of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, this dish promises to be a delightful and wholesome addition to any meal.

Discuss this Tomato Zucchini Squash Skillet Recipe and share your own variations in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

What can I serve this tomato zucchini squash skillet with?

This skillet makes a great side dish for grilled chicken, steak, or fish. It can also be served over rice or quinoa for a vegetarian main course.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just be mindful of the cooking times for each vegetable.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the vegetables ahead of time and cook them when you're ready to serve. Just store the prepped vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Fresh tomatoes are ideal for this recipe as they provide a vibrant flavor and texture. However, if you don't have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute.

How can I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, allow the skillet to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.