Ingredients

3 carrots , sliced
1 large zucchini , sliced
1 large yellow squash , sliced
1 red onion , chopped
1 red bell pepper , chopped
1 cup spaghetti sauce
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 pinch garlic salt
ground black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 package prepared polenta
The Italian Summer Squash Polenta Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for the summer months. It is a great way to use up extra vegetables from the garden and can be customized depending on your taste preferences. The polenta adds a creamy texture that complements the vegetables perfectly, while the cheese adds a rich and satisfying flavor. Serve it as a main course or a side dish at your next dinner party or family gathering.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2.Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3.Add the onions and a pinch of garlic salt. Sauté until onions are translucent.
4.Add the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and carrots. Season with ground black pepper to taste.
5.Cook the vegetables until they begin to soften, about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally.
6.Add the chopped red bell pepper and spaghetti sauce. Mix well and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7.Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Layer the bottom of the dish with prepared polenta.
8.Spoon the vegetable mixture on top of the polenta. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese on top.
9.Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10.10.Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve hot.

PROS

This dish is a great way to use up extra summer squash and carrots from the garden.

The polenta adds a hearty texture that complements the vegetables perfectly.

It is a vegetarian dish that you can serve as a main course or side dish.

CONS

This dish can be time-consuming to prepare, especially if you make the polenta from scratch.

The cheese can be quite fatty, so it’s best to enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is a great source of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
Summer squash and carrots are both low in calories and high in fiber, which can aid in digestion.
Polenta is high in complex carbohydrates, which can provide long-lasting energy and aid in weight management.
Mozzarella cheese is a good source of calcium, which can help support strong bones.

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