Creamy Low-Carb Summer Squash Casserole Delight
This Creamy Low-Carb Summer Squash Casserole Delight is a nutritious and satisfying dish that brings together the fresh flavors of summer squash and bell peppers, enriched with a deliciously creamy corn base. Perfect for those looking for a low-carb and diabetic-friendly option, this casserole is not only healthy but also simple to prepare. With the addition of sweet bell peppers and optional jalapeno for a hint of heat, it’s a fantastic side dish or a light main course that the whole family will enjoy. This casserole is a great way to highlight seasonal vegetables while keeping your meal plan on track!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
summer squash
2 lbs (sliced)
bell peppers
3 (seeded and chopped)
onion
1 large (chopped)
canola oil
2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
creamed corn
1 (15 ounce) can (drained)
artificial sweetener
1 tablespoon (granulated (no calorie))
cornmeal
1/4 cup (for thickening)
salt and pepper
1/8 teaspoon each (to taste (optional))
jalapeno
1 (minced (optional))
Instructions
1
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
2. Steam the sliced summer squash in a pot with 1/4 cup of water for about 10 minutes until very tender. Alternatively, you can microwave the squash in a covered bowl for about the same time and drain any excess water.
3
3. In a food processor, mash or puree the steamed squash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
4
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the canola oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped bell peppers and onion until they soften, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
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5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pureed squash, sautéed onion and bell peppers, creamed corn, artificial sweetener, and cornmeal. Mix thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in minced jalapeño if using.
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6. Spray a 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
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7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Low-Carb Summer Squash Casserole Delight?
It is a nutritious and satisfying vegetable casserole that combines summer squash and bell peppers with a creamy corn base.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to be low-carb and diabetic-friendly.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
How much summer squash is required?
You will need 2 pounds of sliced summer squash for this recipe.
How should the summer squash be prepared initially?
Steam the sliced squash in a pot with 1/4 cup of water for about 10 minutes or microwave it until very tender.
How do I make the squash creamy?
Use a food processor to mash or puree the steamed squash until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
What vegetables are sautéed in this recipe?
One large chopped onion and three seeded and chopped bell peppers are sautéed until soft.
What type of oil is used for sautéing the vegetables?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of canola oil.
How long does it take to sauté the onions and peppers?
Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
What kind of corn is used in this dish?
The recipe uses one 15-ounce can of creamed corn, which should be drained.
Does this recipe use real sugar?
No, it uses 1 tablespoon of granulated artificial sweetener to remain low-carb and diabetic-friendly.
How is the casserole thickened?
1/4 cup of cornmeal is added to the mixture to serve as a thickening agent.
Is there a spicy option for this casserole?
Yes, you can optionally stir in one minced jalapeño for a hint of heat.
What size baking dish do I need?
You should use a 2-quart casserole dish.
Do I need to grease the casserole dish?
Yes, spray the dish with nonstick cooking spray before pouring in the mixture.
How long should the casserole bake?
Bake the dish for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
How can I tell when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when it is bubbly and heated thoroughly.
Should the casserole be served immediately?
It is recommended to allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking before serving.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian and does not contain any meat products.
Is the Creamy Low-Carb Summer Squash Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, based on the recipe tags, this dish is considered gluten-free.
Can this be served as a main dish?
Yes, while it is a great side dish, its satisfying nature makes it a fantastic light main course.
How much salt and pepper is recommended?
The recipe suggests 1/8 teaspoon of each, but you can adjust to your own taste.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 9 ingredients used in this recipe.
Can I microwave the squash instead of steaming it?
Yes, you can microwave the squash in a covered bowl for about 10 minutes and then drain the water.
What texture should the squash have after processing?
The squash should be mashed or pureed until it is smooth and creamy.
What are the main flavor profiles of this dish?
The dish features fresh summer squash, sweet bell peppers, and a creamy corn base.
Is this a good recipe for highlighting seasonal produce?
Absolutely, it is specifically described as a great way to highlight seasonal summer vegetables.
Is this recipe easy to follow?
Yes, it is described as a simple preparation that is both healthy and flavorful.
What should I do if the squash has excess water?
You should drain any excess water after steaming or microwaving the squash before pureeing it.
How should the mixture be placed in the casserole dish?
Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly before baking.