Easy Late-Summer Veggie Sauté – Zucchini, Corn & Cherry Tomatoes

Celebrate late-summer produce with this quick veggie sauté! Zucchini, corn, and cherry tomatoes shine in a light, fresh side dish topped with basil & feta.

Easy Late-Summer Veggie Sauté – Zucchini, Corn & Cherry Tomatoes

Just because the calendar says late summer doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to vibrant, fresh vegetables. In fact, this is one of the best times of year to enjoy them! Farmers’ markets are still overflowing with zucchini, sweet corn, plump cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil—each one tasting like sunshine on a plate.

This Easy Late-Summer Veggie Sauté brings those flavors together in one quick, colorful dish. A light sear in olive oil enhances their natural sweetness while keeping them crisp and bright. Finished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of creamy feta, it’s the perfect side dish to celebrate the season.

Serve it alongside grilled chicken, seared salmon, or a juicy steak for a balanced summer dinner. It also pairs beautifully with simple pasta, rice, or quinoa for a fresh, vegetarian-friendly meal that’s light yet satisfying.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps achieve a golden sear.

• Yellow Squash & Zucchini – A classic summer pairing with mild, tender flavors.

• Corn on the Cob – Sweet and crisp, adding texture to the dish.

• Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy pops of color and tang.

• Fresh Basil – Brings a fragrant, herby note that brightens everything.

• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing flavor.

• Feta Cheese – A creamy, salty finish that complements the veggies.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Oil – Swap olive oil for avocado oil or butter for a richer flavor.

• Herbs – Fresh parsley, dill, or thyme can be used if basil isn’t available.

• Cheese – Goat cheese, parmesan, or dairy-free feta are great alternatives.

Variations

• Add Garlic – A clove or two, sautéed at the start, for extra aroma.

• Make It Spicy – A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil adds heat.

• Mediterranean Twist – Add Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes for deeper flavor.

• Grilled Version – Grill the veggies for smoky depth before tossing with basil and feta.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – A single layer helps the vegetables caramelize instead of steam.

• Use Fresh Corn If Possible – It adds natural sweetness and crunch. Frozen corn works in a pinch.

• Choose Block-Style Feta – Crumble pieces from a block for a creamier texture and fresher flavor compared to pre-crumbled feta.

• Serve Immediately – The dish tastes best while the veggies are warm and the feta slightly melts.

• Prep Ahead – Slice vegetables in advance for a quick weeknight side dish.

"Set the Mood"

Picture a warm evening where the sun lingers just a little longer, and dinner is all about simple pleasures. 

Serve this colorful vegetable sauté family-style on a rustic platter with grilled chicken or fish, a crisp white wine or sparkling water, and maybe a loaf of crusty bread for soaking up all the delicious juices. 

Whether it’s a weeknight meal on the patio or a casual backyard dinner with friends, this dish brings late-summer freshness to the table in the most effortless way.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

💬 Let’s Chat!

Have you tried this side dish? What are your favorite summer side dishes or vegetables to cook? Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @SliceofSouthern—I’d love to see how yours turns out!

Savory Roasted Butternut Squash with Zesty Marinated Feta

Savory Roasted Butternut Squash with Zesty Marinated Feta – A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish for Chilly Winter Nights!

Savory Roasted Butternut Squash with Zesty Marinated Feta

Savory Roasted Butternut Squash with Zesty Marinated Feta is the ultimate winter side dish—simple, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. If you’re looking for an easy but impressive recipe, this dish is a must-try. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs perfectly with the tangy, herb-infused feta, creating a contrast of flavors that will elevate any meal. Plus, it’s made with just a handful of fresh ingredients, many of which you may already have in your kitchen!

One of the best things about this butternut squash recipe is how effortless it is to prepare. With minimal chopping and a quick roast in the oven, you’ll have a warm, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The feta cheese is marinated in fragrant olive oil, fresh thyme, and rosemary, infusing it with bold Mediterranean flavors that enhance every bite. The roasting process caramelizes the squash, bringing out its natural richness while adding a slight crispiness to the edges.  The combination of flavors create an incredibly delicious dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Serve Roasted Butternut Squash with Marinated Feta alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or seared steak for a well-balanced meal.  Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight dinner addition or a flavorful side for a dinner party, this easy butternut squash recipe is a winner!

Enjoy!

 

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce:

• Butternut squash
• Fresh thyme
• Fresh rosemary

Dairy:

• Block of feta cheese

Pantry Staples:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt & pepper

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Butternut squash → Sweet potatoes, acorn squash, or pumpkin
• Fresh thyme & rosemary → Dried thyme & rosemary (use half the amount) or Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes → a pinch of cayenne for mild heat

Variations

• Swap the Feta cheese:  Use goat cheese, ricotta salata, or queso fresco
• Add Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts during the last few minutes of roasting for a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the soft squash.
• Zucchini or Summer Squash Variation:  Substitute the butternut squash: Slice zucchini or summer squash into 1/2-inch thick rounds or half-moons.  Reduce the roasting time to 15-20 minutes at 450°F.  Use goat cheese instead of feta and marinate with the same herbs.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Buy pre-cut squash for ease:  cutting your own will produce the freshest results but is often found a little hard to cut.  Find pre-cut squash that are cut in cubes as they are typically more fresh. This will cut down on cutting time.

• Roasting Tip: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting the squash. If the pieces are too close together, they may steam rather than roast, affecting the texture. Use two baking sheets if needed.

• Herb Substitution: If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute dried thyme and dried rosemary. Just use about half the amount to avoid overwhelming the dish. Dried herbs are more potent than fresh.

• Roasting Tip: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting the squash. If the pieces are too close together, they may steam rather than roast, affecting the texture. Use two baking sheets if needed.

• Serving Tip: If you’re serving the roasted squash with marinated feta as a side, consider pairing it with a protein like grilled chicken, pork, or salmon to make it a complete meal.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, but the squash will lose some of its crispness. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

   EQUIPMENT YOU MAY NEED   

• Large rimmed baking sheet – Ensures even roasting and allows the squash to caramelize.

• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

• Mixing bowls – A large one for tossing the squash with olive oil and seasoning and a small one for marinating the feta mixture.

• Sharp knife – Essential for peeling and cubing the butternut squash.

• Cutting board – A sturdy surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.

• Measuring spoons – To accurately portion out herbs, oil, and spices.

• Serving platter - To beautifully present the finished dish.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Savory Roasted Butternut Squash with Zesty Marinated Feta

Serves: 6

1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
5 tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided
1 tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
1⁄4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
4 oz. block of feta
1 dash Salt and pepper, to taste

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with three tablespoons of olive oil, then salt and pepper to taste. Pour out onto the prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes, tossing once, or until tender and charred in spots.

Meanwhile, cut the feta into thin strips, then break into shards and place in a shallow dish. In a small bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, and additional salt and pepper. Pour over the feta and toss once to coat. Allow to sit for 10-15 minutes.

When the squash is cooked through, pour it onto a serving platter. Scatter the marinated feta over top.

Zucchini, Corn, and Tomato Skillet Sauté

Gather late summer's best produce and create this skillet sauté that will leave you craving for more!

Zucchini, Corn, and Tomato Skillet Sauté

I have the perfect side dish that will be on the table in 30 minutes.  All you have to do is pick a protein to go with it and you have a well rounded meal.  Chicken, beef, pork, or fish will all work well with this side dish.

Use summer fresh corn on the cob, the abundance of zucchini which is available right now, and summer ripe tomatoes which are at their peak.  These will make the dish more flavorful when using the freshest in-season produce.  Add some aromatics like red onion and garlic and sauté them all together.  We finish with some fresh basil and voila, the dish is ready.  

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• butter

• red onion

• garlic

• zucchini

• corn on the cob

• grape tomatoes

• basil

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetables:  add mushrooms, yellow squash, green beans

• Herbs: choose thyme, rosemary or oregano 

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Use a large skillet such as this one

• Butter provide a flavor for the dish but you can use olive oil or a neutral oil if you wish

• Great side dish for any protein (pork, beef, chicken, fish)

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Zucchini, Corn, and Tomato Skillet Sauté

serves 4

3 Tablespoons butter
1/2 red onion, chopped
1 Garlic clove, minced
1 zucchini, halved and sliced in to moon shapes
3 ears corn, kernels removed
1 1/2 cups halved grape tomatoes
1/4 cup basil, chopped
salt & pepper

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.  Add onion and garlic and cook until the onion softens about 3 minutes.  Add zucchini and cook, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes.  Add in the corn and the extra tablespoon of butter and cook for 3 minutes.  Add in the tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and burst about 3-4 minutes.  Remove from heat and stir in basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove to a bowl or platter and garnish with a little extra basil on the top.  Serve.

One Pot Cajun Chicken with "Modern" Succotash

One Pot Cajun Chicken with "Modern" Succotash is an easy weeknight meal that's bursting with flavors and full of veggies.

One Pot Cajun Chicken with "Modern" Succotash

During the busy holidays I love one pot meals that I can have on the table in 30 minutes.  This recipe features chicken that is cut into bite sized pieces, sprinkled with Cajun seasoning blend, and cooked quickly (think stir fry).  Then we move on to cooking the succotash which is a blend of vegetables.  It's popular in the South but my version has a more modern spin using corn, shelled edamame, cherry tomatoes, and green onions. The whole thing is then covered with a sauce that is luscious.  

You'll want to keep this dish in your rotation as it is a winner!  I served it over some basmati rice, but it would also be great over mashed potatoes, or polenta, and of course it will stand on its own as well.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• thin sliced boneless chicken breasts or 2 large regular cut chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning - I love this one and this one
• olive oil - I love this brand
• frozen roasted whole kernel corn
• frozen shelled edamame
• dried thyme
• cherry tomatoes
• green onions 
• reduced sodium chicken broth
• heavy cream
• butter
• Dijon mustard
• Optional: hot cooked rice

Substitutions and Variations

• You can substitute lima beans for the edamame

• Use cut up pork tenderloin or turkey tenderloin instead of chicken

• Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta

• Use chicken thighs if you prefer

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• I used my Lodge 3 quart enameled cast iron dutch over for this dish.  It was the perfect size.  

• A stir fry wooden spatula is the perfect utensil to use in cooking this dish.
• I use serving bowls or serving platters to serve this family style.

• Remove the cooked chicken to a plate or a baking sheet until the vegetables and sauce and made.

• Measure out all your ingredients so that they are ready to go when you start cooking.  This is a fast dish.

• Do all your prep work before you start cooking to get dinner on the table faster.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

One Pot Cajun Chicken with "Modern" Succotash

serves 4

4 thin sliced boneless chicken breasts
2-3 tsp Cajun seasoning
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 1/4 cup frozen roasted whole kernel corn
1 cup frozen shelled edamame
1/2 tsp dried thyme
10-12 cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup sliced green onions (white and green parts) (about 2)
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2/3 cup reduced sodium chicken broth
2 Tbsp heavy cream
2 Tbsp butter
2 tsp. Dijon mustard

Optional:  hot cooked rice

Cut chicken breasts in to bite sized pieces.  Sprinkle Cajun seasoning all over the chicken, tossing to coat.  In a large skillet or wok heat oil over medium high heat.  Add the chicken and cook about 6-7 minutes or until the chicken is done.  Make sure to toss and turn chicken often as it is cooking (like a stir-fry method).  Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Add corn and edamame to the skillet.  Cook about 5 minutes or until crisp-tender.  Add in tomatoes and green onions.  Add in salt and pepper to taste.  Stir to combine and heated through.  Add broth and thyme.  Loosen any browned bits on the bottom.  Bring the broth to a boil and boil gently for 3-5 minutes or until broth is reduced by half.  Add in cream and butter and stir until melted.  Add in the mustard and stir to combine.  Add back in chicken and heat through.  Pour into a serving bowl or platter and garnish with a few cherry tomato halves and extra green onions if you with.  Serve over rice if desired.

Cold Weather Warmers: Easy Homemade Minestrone Soup

This Easy Homemade Minestrone Soup is chock full of hearty vegetables and beans that are simmered in a chicken tomato broth and spiced just right with wonderful Italian herbs.  The perfect to warm yourself on a cold night! 

EASY HOMEMADE MINESTRONE SOUP

I thought it was time to update my Homemade Minestrone Soup recipe from 2019 with new pictures since this soup is a staple during the cold months.

It's getting really cold outside and to me that mean "soup season" is here. This Minestrone soup is an Italian classic that is easy to put together and the taste can't be beat. You will need about 1 hour to make this soup so plan accordingly. Perfect to make on a Sunday with some crusty bread and a hearty salad.

Enjoy!

Want some other great soups?   Try Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup and Italian Chicken and Bean Soup and Cheesy Potato Soup.  They are all delicious and guaranteed to drive away the cold!  

What Ingredients do I need?

• olive oil
• onion
• carrots
• celery
• zucchini
• yellow squash
• garlic
• low-sodium chicken broth - pick a good broth that you like
• dried oregano
• dried thyme
• red pepper flakes
• bay leaves
• diced tomatoes, 28 oz can 
• canned Cannellini beans
• canned red Kidney beans
• fresh baby spinach
• Ditalini pasta

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• The secret to a good soup is a good broth, and allowing the flavors to meld together to develop a rich taste.  Don't skimp on the broth!

• Make sure to allow the soup to simmer 20-30 minutes to develop a rich flavor.

• If you want to keep the soup you might want to cook the pasta separately and adding it at the time of serving.  Pasta tends to absorb the liquid of the soup if you store it in the refrigerator for a few days.

• If you are going to freeze the soup I would leave the pasta out and add it when serving.  The pasta will become bloated and loose it's integrity when frozen in soup.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Easy Homemade Minestrone Soup

serves 6


2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 small carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 small zucchini, diced
1 small yellow squash, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6-7 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tsp. dried oregano
2 tsp. dried thyme
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
2 bay leaves
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
1 (15 oz) can Cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can Kidney beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups chopped fresh baby spinach
1 cup Ditalini pasta
salt and pepper


Heat oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender. Add the zucchini, yellow squash, and garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add 1/2 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, using a spoon to scrape up any brown bits on the bottom of the pan.


Add the remaining chicken broth, oregano, thyme, black pepper, red pepper flakes, bay leaves, tomatoes, and drained beans. Turn the heat to high and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for at least 20-30 minutes.

Add the spinach and the pasta. Cook for 10 minutes more until the pasta is al dente. Remove the bay leaves and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Fresh Start: Sirloin Steak with a Basil Compound Butter, Snap Peas & Carrots

Juicy lean steak topped with a basil lemon compound butter with saute'd snap peas & carrots.  A lean, low carb dish made in under 30 minutes!

Sirloin Steak with a Basil Compound Butter, Snap Peas & Carrots

My New Year's "intentions" always include eating healthier.  Lately I've been making dishes that are lean, full or flavor, low carb, and easy to prepare.  Cooking an involved meal on a weeknight is NOT what I'm about.  This dish is simple to prepare and provides you with a healthy dinner, perfect for my "intentions".

Sirloin steak cooks up quick and turns out juicy.  Top it with an easy compound butter of lemon, basil, and garlic and your steak turns up a notch.  On the side we have a simple saute of snap peas & carrots flavored with the same profile of garlic and lemon.  This is one EASY and FLAVORFUL weeknight dish you can make in under 30 minutes!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• sirloin steak
• carrots
• sugar snap peas
• butter
• lemon
• basil
• garlic

Substitutions and Variations

• Use the lean steak of your choice

• Use chicken, pork chops, or fish as the protein

• Change up the vegetable combo: mushrooms and snow peas, zucchini and bell pepper, tomatoes and green beans

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Double the recipe for more servings

• Set out your steak about 1 hour before cooking to bring to room temperature

• Pat your steaks dry before cooking to get a good sear

• Slice your vegetables thin so they cook and get tender quickly.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Sirloin Steak with a Basil Compound Butter, Snap Peas & Carrots

serves 2 - 3

1 - 1 1/2 lbs. sirloin steak
2 medium carrots
1 8oz pkg sugar snap peas
2 Tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon
4 Tablespoons butter, unsalted, divided use
salt & pepper

Cut the butter in small pieces and place in a small bowl.  Set aside to soften.

Zest 1/2 lemon into the bowl with the butter.  Cut the 1/2 lemon in to wedges and set aside.  Peel and mince garlic and add it to the bowl with the butter.  Add chopped basil to the bowl.

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Pat dry your steak(s) and season with salt and pepper on both sides.  Add 1 Tablespoon of butter to the skillet and swirl to coat.  Add steak and cook from 2-5 minutes per side until desired doneness.  Transfer to a clean plate and cover with aluminum foil.

Meanwhile steak is cooking, peel the carrots and slice into thin rounds.  Add more butter to the skillet (1 Tbsp) and swirl to coat.  Add carrots and snap peas.  Season with salt and pepper.  Stir fry veggies until fork tender, about 4 minutes.  Remove from heat.

Stir the butter and add-ins until smooth and blended.

Thinly slice the steak across the grain.  Divide steaks among the plates and top with a dollop of butter.  Serve with carrots and sugar snap peas on the side.  Squeeze lemon over the veggies.