Herbed Summer Squash and Egg Casserole
Indulge in this delightful Herbed Summer Squash and Egg Casserole, a perfect dish for summer gatherings or a wholesome brunch. Packed with nutritious ingredients like tender summer squash, vibrant Swiss chard, and fresh herbs, this casserole offers a light yet satisfying option that is both delicious and easy to prepare. The combination of egg whites and whole eggs creates a fluffy texture, while the melted light cheese on top adds a delightful creaminess. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy each bite of this colorful summer dish!
N/A
Servings
90
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Egg Whites
12 (separated from yolks)
Eggs
5 (whole)
Summer Squash
2 (sliced)
Swiss Chard
1.5 cups (chopped)
Garlic Cloves
4 (minced)
Large Onion
1 (diced)
Tomatoes
2 (chopped)
Basil
1 tsp (dried or fresh, to taste)
Thyme
1 tsp (dried or fresh, to taste)
Rosemary
1 tsp (dried or fresh, to taste)
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Light Cheese
0.5 cups (shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced summer squash, chopped Swiss chard, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onion becomes translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the sautéed vegetables to a round baking pan, allowing them to cool slightly.
4
Chop the tomatoes and distribute them evenly over the cooled vegetable mixture in the baking pan.
5
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg whites and whole eggs. Add basil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing until well combined.
6
Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the baking pan, ensuring an even distribution.
7
Shred the light cheese over the top of the casserole evenly.
8
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
9
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing into 8 equal portions. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
3.75g
Fat
4.5g
Carbs
8.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herbed Summer Squash and Egg Casserole?
It is a nutritious baked dish featuring summer squash, Swiss chard, fresh herbs, and a combination of egg whites and whole eggs for a fluffy texture.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is low in calories, high in protein, and packed with fresh vegetables like Swiss chard and squash.
How many calories are in one serving of this casserole?
Each of the 8 portions contains approximately 90 calories.
What type of squash should I use?
The recipe calls for summer squash, but you can also use zucchini or yellow crookneck squash.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
The recipe uses 12 egg whites and 5 whole eggs to create a light and airy texture.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 8.25g of protein.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh basil, thyme, and rosemary; typically, you would use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
How long does it take to bake?
The casserole takes approximately 40 minutes to bake in a preheated oven.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredient list, this casserole is naturally gluten-free.
How do I prepare the Swiss chard?
The Swiss chard should be chopped and sautéed with the onion, garlic, and squash before baking.
What size pan should I use for baking?
A standard round baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can sauté the vegetables in advance and store them, then add the egg mixture and bake when ready.
How should I store leftover casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can this casserole be served cold?
Yes, it can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using a shredded light cheese to keep the calorie count low while adding creaminess.
How many servings does the recipe provide?
The recipe is designed to be sliced into 8 equal portions.
Do I need to peel the summer squash?
No, the skin of summer squash is thin and tender, so you only need to slice it.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or whole-grain toast.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly dish as it contains eggs, cheese, and vegetables.
Why do I need to sauté the vegetables first?
Sautéing softens the vegetables and helps remove excess moisture so the casserole doesn't become watery.
Can I substitute the light cheese?
Yes, you can use feta, goat cheese, or regular cheddar if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What herbs are included in this dish?
The recipe features a blend of basil, thyme, and rosemary.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The nutritional information indicates that there is no added sugar in this recipe.
How much fat is in one serving?
There is approximately 3.75g of fat per serving.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The eggs should be fully set and the top should be a light golden brown color.
Is this recipe good for brunch?
Yes, its light texture and colorful appearance make it a perfect centerpiece for a summer brunch.
What is the carbohydrate count per portion?
Each portion contains roughly 4.5g of carbohydrates.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
While fresh is best, you can use frozen Swiss chard if you thaw it and squeeze out all the moisture first.