Summer Vegetable Skillet

Summer Vegetable Skillet Recipe - American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Summer Vegetable Skillet recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal during the warmer months. Packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful smoked ham, this skillet is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The Summer Vegetable Skillet recipe is a modern twist on traditional skillet meals that have been enjoyed for generations. By incorporating seasonal vegetables and lean protein, this recipe offers a healthy and satisfying option for a quick and easy dinner.

Ingredients

vegetable cooking spray
1.5 cup (8 oz (227 g)) smoked ham, diced
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup thinly sliced mushrooms
1 medium zucchini squash, sliced into 1 inch rounds then in half
1 large tomato
2 cup fresh spinach, stems removed and torn
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 x 14.5 oz (411 g) can chicken broth
2 cup quick-cooking white rice
1.5 cup frozen corn
0.5 tsp dried basil leaves
0.25 tsp dried oregano leaves

How to prepare

Heat a large skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat until it is hot.
Add ham, onions, and garlic; cook and stir for 5 to 7 minutes or until they become tender.
Add mushrooms, zucchini, tomato, spinach, and pepper. Cook and stir for 3 to 4 minutes or until the spinach is wilted.
Add broth, rice, corn, basil, and oregano.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Then, reduce the heat, cover, and remove from the heat source.
Let it stand for 5 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Variations

Swap out the ham for cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add in your favorite seasonal vegetables for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking.

- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and burning.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein options.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served on its own as a light meal, or paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a more filling option.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is to cook the vegetables until they are tender but still slightly crisp to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe by swapping out any vegetables or protein options to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light and refreshing summer cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Summer Vegetable Skillet contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

This Summer Vegetable Skillet recipe contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This dish contains approximately 8 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of this Summer Vegetable Skillet provides around 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium from the variety of vegetables used.

Alergens

This recipe contains ham, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Overall, this Summer Vegetable Skillet is a well-balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Summer Vegetable Skillet recipe is a delicious and nutritious option for a light and refreshing meal during the warmer months. Packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful smoked ham, this skillet is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook that had been tucked away in the back of my pantry for years. The pages were yellowed and fragile, but as I flipped through them, I knew I had struck gold.

The recipe was for a Summer Vegetable Skillet, a dish that called for an assortment of fresh vegetables sautéed together in a skillet with herbs and spices. It sounded simple yet delicious, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.

I had always been passionate about cooking, a passion that was passed down to me from my own grandmother. She taught me the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients and the joy of sharing a homemade meal with loved ones. Over the years, I had collected recipes from various places and people, but this one felt different. It felt like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

As I gathered the vegetables from my garden – zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs – I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. I chopped and diced with care, savoring the colors and aromas that filled my kitchen. Each vegetable brought its own unique flavor and texture to the dish, creating a symphony of tastes that danced on my taste buds.

I heated a skillet on the stove, adding a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic. As the garlic sizzled and released its fragrant aroma, I added the vegetables, one by one, letting them cook and caramelize to perfection. The colors mingled and melded together, creating a vibrant tapestry of flavors that promised to delight the senses.

I seasoned the vegetables with a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh basil and oregano. The fragrant herbs perfumed the air, adding a touch of freshness to the dish. I stirred and sautéed, letting the vegetables cook until they were tender yet still slightly crisp.

As I plated the Summer Vegetable Skillet, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The dish looked beautiful, a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. I garnished it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, adding the final touches that elevated it to a work of art.

I sat down at the table and took a bite, savoring the medley of flavors that exploded in my mouth. The vegetables were sweet and savory, with a slight crunch that added a delightful texture. The herbs added a burst of freshness, while the cheese added a creamy richness that tied it all together.

As I ate, I thought about all the recipes I had collected over the years, each one holding a special place in my heart. But this Summer Vegetable Skillet was different. It was more than just a recipe – it was a reminder of the joy and passion that cooking brought into my life.

I knew that I would make this dish again and again, sharing it with friends and family who would appreciate its simplicity and deliciousness. And as I finished the last bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a timeless classic that would never go out of style.

So here I am, many years later, still making my Summer Vegetable Skillet and sharing the recipe with anyone who will listen. It may have been a chance discovery in an old cookbook, but to me, it will always be a treasure worth cherishing.