Summer Veggie Skillet with Melted Fontina

Summer is here, and there’s nothing quite like a fresh, vibrant dish to celebrate the season’s bounty. The Summer Veggie Skillet with Melted Fontina is a delightful medley of colorful vegetables that’s not only quick to make but also packed with flavor. With just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s perfect for a family dinner, a light lunch, or a savory side to accompany any main course. The creamy Fontina cheese adds a rich, gooey texture that takes this dish to the next level.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This skillet dish is perfect for summer because it utilizes fresh vegetables that you can easily find at farmer’s markets or grocery stores. Its simplicity allows the flavors of your ingredients to shine through. The balance between the sweetness of the sautéed veggies, the aromatic touch of garlic, and the creamy melted Fontina cheese creates a comforting yet refreshing meal. It can also be made in just 25 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Summer Veggie Skillet with Melted Fontina. Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half moons
• 1 yellow squash, sliced into half moons
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded Fontina cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the thinly sliced red onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften and turn translucent.

Step 2: Next, introduce the zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir the vegetables occasionally for about 5-6 minutes, cooking until they just begin to soften and slightly brown. This step not only enhances their flavors but builds a delicious base for the dish.

Step 3: Now it’s time to add flavor! Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic into the skillet. Season everything with dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper to your liking. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to burst and release their juices, enveloping the vegetables in a flavorful sauce.

Step 4: Once your vegetables are perfectly sautéed, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle the shredded Fontina cheese evenly across the vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, giving the cheese time to melt into a creamy layer over the colorful array of veggies.

Step 5: After the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Give it a gentle stir to mix the cheese with the vegetables. Lastly, garnish the skillet with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. The dish is now ready to be served hot, directly from the skillet.

5 FAQ Pairs

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the zucchini, yellow squash, and bell pepper with other seasonal veggies like asparagus, eggplant, or even broccoli, depending on your preferences.

Can I make this skillet vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian! However, if you want to make it vegan, you can replace Fontina cheese with a non-dairy cheese alternative.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the Summer Veggie Skillet with Melted Fontina is fully gluten-free as it contains no grains or bread products.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the skillet over low heat until heated through.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! For an added protein boost, consider mixing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the skillet while cooking the vegetables.

Conclusion

In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delicious Summer Veggie Skillet with Melted Fontina that celebrates the flavors of the season. This dish not only highlights the freshness of summer vegetables but also serves as a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a summer staple in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a slice of summer on your plate!