Mediterranean Summer Squash & Pinto Bean Skillet with Toasted Sourdough

Mediterranean Summer Squash & Pinto Bean Skillet with Toasted Sourdough is a warm, rustic dish filled with tender summer squash, pinto beans, basil, Parmesan, and savory broth. Perfect for a leisurely lunch or light summer meal with plenty of crusty bread for dipping.

Mediterranean Summer Squash & Pinto Bean Skillet with Toasted Sourdough

During the summer, my husband and I naturally gravitate toward what I like to call Mediterranean Lunch Plates—simple, hearty dishes that fall somewhere between an appetizer and a full meal. They're the kind of recipes that invite you to slow down, gather around the table with a slice of good bread, and enjoy an unhurried lunch filled with good conversation. They aren't complicated, but they always feel special.

This Mediterranean Summer Squash & Pinto Bean Skillet with Toasted Sourdough is exactly that kind of meal. Tender zucchini and yellow squash are gently simmered with sweet shallots, garlic, fresh basil, Parmesan, and pinto beans in a light, flavorful broth that's just begging to be soaked up with toasted sourdough. I love serving it in a large pie plate, where all of those delicious juices collect around the vegetables and beans, making it perfect for dipping every last piece of bread.

I also think beans deserve a little more attention in everyday cooking. They're an inexpensive, satisfying source of both protein and fiber, and they have a wonderful way of turning a vegetable-forward dish into something that's hearty enough to keep you full without feeling heavy. Here, the pinto beans blend beautifully with the summer squash, adding substance while letting the fresh herbs and Parmesan shine.

Best of all, everything comes together on the stovetop, making it a wonderful choice for warm summer days when turning on the oven is the last thing you want to do. It's simple, rustic, and exactly the kind of meal that reminds me to slow down and enjoy both the food and the company around the table.

Enjoy!

-- Ingredients

Every ingredient in this skillet has a purpose, and together they create a simple lunch that's hearty, satisfying, and full of fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavor.

Zucchini - Tender zucchini is one of the stars of this dish. Giving it a quick sear before simmering brings out its natural sweetness while adding beautiful golden edges.

Yellow Squash - Yellow squash adds a second layer of summer flavor and a pop of color that makes the finished skillet feel bright and inviting.

Olive Oil - A good-quality extra virgin olive oil lays the foundation for the entire recipe, helping the vegetables caramelize while adding rich Mediterranean flavor.

Shallot - Shallots become wonderfully sweet as they cook, creating a delicate flavor that blends beautifully with the garlic and herbs.

Garlic - Fresh garlic adds warmth and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.

Pinto Beans - One of the most underrated pantry staples, pinto beans are packed with protein and fiber, making this vegetable-forward dish hearty enough for lunch while keeping it light and satisfying.

Fresh Basil - Fresh basil adds a bright, fragrant finish that tastes like summer and brings all of the flavors together.

Parmesan Cheese - Rather than melting into a creamy sauce, the Parmesan softens into little savory pockets throughout the broth, adding richness and bursts of salty flavor in every spoonful.

Chicken Broth - Chicken broth creates the light, flavorful base that ties everything together and gives you plenty of delicious juices for dipping toasted bread.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes - Just a touch of crushed red pepper adds gentle warmth without making the dish overly spicy.

Toasted Sourdough - Don't skip the sourdough! Crisp, toasted slices are perfect for scooping up the vegetables, beans, and every last bit of the flavorful broth.

-- Equipment 

Here's the equipment you will need to make this dish.

• Large skillet
• Chef's knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large shallow serving bowl or pie plate
• Toaster or grill pan for the sourdough

My Go-To's

These are the items I rely on.

• Large skillet - my 12" skillet is a workhorse in my kitchen
• Large shallow serving bowl or pie plate - I use my pie plate as a vessel all the time.  It's not just for making pies!

-- Let's Make It Together

Everything comes together in one skillet, making this an easy recipe for warm summer afternoons. Start by giving the zucchini and yellow squash a good sear until they're lightly golden. That little bit of caramelization adds wonderful flavor and helps the squash hold its shape.

Once the squash is set aside, sauté the shallots until they're soft and sweet before stirring in the garlic. Add the squash back to the skillet along with the chicken broth, fresh basil, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes, then gently stir everything together. Finally, fold in the pinto beans and let the mixture simmer just long enough for the flavors to come together.

Serve it warm in a large shallow bowl or pie plate with plenty of toasted sourdough on the side. Don't be surprised if everyone reaches for one more piece of bread to soak up the flavorful broth—it may be the best part.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to this recipe is allowing the squash to develop a little color before adding the broth. Those golden edges create deeper flavor while keeping the vegetables from becoming too soft during simmering. The Parmesan won't melt into a smooth sauce—instead, it creates little savory bites throughout the broth, adding richness without making the dish heavy.

-- Add Your Touch

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to adapt with whatever you have on hand. Think of it as a starting point and don't be afraid to make it your own.

• Substitute cannellini or butter beans for the pinto beans.
• Add baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Top with crumbled feta instead of Parmesan.
• Finish with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
• Add grilled chicken for a heartier dinner. 

Set the Mood

A good meal deserves a great setting. Here are a few easy ways to set the mood when serving this dish.

More Mediterranean-Inspired Recipes

If you enjoy fresh ingredients, rustic flavors, and meals that are simple enough for everyday cooking, here are a few more Mediterranean-inspired recipes to explore.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad 

Easy Greek Style Turkey Burgers

Marinated Cherry Tomatoes & Angel Hair Pasta

Summer-Fresh Crispy Gnocchi with Burst Tomatoes

More Summer Favorites

Summer cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Some of my favorite recipes celebrate the season with fresh vegetables, simple ingredients, and plenty of opportunities to gather around the table. Here are a few more recipes perfect for warm-weather meals.

Grilled Flank Steak with Salsa Rossa Picante & Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers

Eggplant & Chicken Sandwiches

From My Kitchen to Yours

Some of my favorite weekends are the ones where lunch isn't rushed. A simple dish in the center of the table, plenty of toasted bread, and time to linger over good conversation—that's what inspired this recipe. I hope it becomes one of those meals you return to whenever you want to slow down, savor the season, and enjoy the simple pleasure of sharing good food.

Before You Start

Why should I brown the squash first?
Browning gives the squash a deeper, sweeter flavor and helps it hold its shape while simmering.

Can I use a different bean?
Absolutely! Cannellini, butter beans, or Great Northern beans all work beautifully.

Is this served as a meal or an appetizer?
It's somewhere in between—that's exactly why I love it. Served with toasted sourdough, it's hearty enough for a leisurely lunch but also works beautifully as part of a larger mezze-style spread.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.

Can I make it ahead?
The flavors become even better after a few hours in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Rustic Orange Blossom Honey Quick Bread

Rustic Orange Blossom Honey Quick Bread is a tender Southern-style loaf made with browned butter, fresh orange zest, and orange blossom honey. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea, or sharing with friends.

Rustic Orange Blossom Honey Quick Bread

If you've been around Slice of Southern for a while, you know the story behind the name. While I was born and raised in California, my parents brought a little slice of the South with them, and many of my favorite recipes and kitchen memories were shaped by the traditions they passed down. My mom especially loved baking quick breads. There always seemed to be a loaf cooling on the counter, ready to enjoy with breakfast, an afternoon cup of tea, or wrapped up and shared with a friend or neighbor. Those simple moments are some of the memories I treasure most.

This Rustic Orange Blossom Honey Quick Bread is my modern take on one of those comforting classics. It starts with the familiar tenderness of a traditional quick bread, then layers in browned butter for rich, nutty flavor, fresh orange zest for bright citrus notes, and fragrant orange blossom honey that adds a delicate floral sweetness. A touch of cornmeal gives the loaf just enough rustic character while keeping every slice wonderfully soft and moist.

It's the kind of bread I can picture on the table at brunch, served alongside a pot of hot tea during a ladies' gathering, or tucked into a basket as a homemade gift for a neighbor. It honors the recipes my mom loved to bake while reflecting the fresh citrus flavors that have always felt like home to me here in California. For me, that's exactly what Slice of Southern has always been about—bringing together the best of both worlds, one recipe at a time.

Enjoy!

-- Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour - Provides the structure while keeping the loaf tender.

Fine Yellow Cornmeal - Just a touch adds subtle texture and rustic character without making the bread dense.

Orange Blossom Honey - Use a good-quality orange blossom honey for its delicate floral aroma. It adds sweetness while complementing the fresh orange zest throughout the loaf.

Fresh Orange - Used for the zest and the juice. Note: Rubbing the zest into the sugar will release natural citrus oils that brighten every bite.

Browned Butter - Adds rich, nutty flavor that gives this quick bread a bakery-style finish.

Buttermilk - Keeps the loaf soft, tender, and moist.

Baking Powder, Baking soda - both are used to give a good lift.

Eggs, Sugar, and Vanilla Extract - baking staples

-- Equipment 

Here is a list of equipment you will need to make this recipe.

• 8-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Microplane zester
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack
• Pastry brush (for the honey finish)

My Go-To's

• 8-inch loaf pan - this is my Nordic Ware fluted loaf pan

• Cooling rack - a must have

• Microplane zester - the easiest way to zest fruit

• Pastry brush (for the honey finish)

• Orange Blossom Honey - this honey makes the dish!

-- Let's Make It Together

This loaf comes together with just a few simple steps, but a couple of little techniques make all the difference. Start by whisking together your dry ingredients while your oven preheats. Then, rub the orange zest into the sugar with your fingertips until it becomes fragrant. It's one of my favorite baking tricks because it releases the natural citrus oils and gives the loaf bright orange flavor in every bite.

Next, whisk together the honey, eggs, browned butter, buttermilk, orange juice, and vanilla until everything is smooth and well combined. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until no dry streaks remain. The batter should look a little rustic—that's exactly what you want. Overmixing is the quickest way to lose that wonderfully tender crumb.

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake until the top is beautifully golden with a light crack running down the center. Once the loaf comes out of the oven, brush the top with a little warmed orange blossom honey while it's still warm. It doesn't create a heavy glaze—just a soft sheen and an extra layer of wonderful honey aroma. Let the bread cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. The hardest part is waiting, but it's well worth it.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The secret to this loaf is treating the batter gently. Once the dry ingredients are added, mix only until no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing develops the gluten and can make quick breads tough instead of tender. Browning the butter and rubbing the orange zest into the sugar are two simple extra steps that add incredible depth of flavor without adding extra work.

 

-- Add Your Touch

One of the things I love most about quick breads is how easy they are to personalize. This loaf is delicious exactly as written, but if you're in the mood to experiment, here are a few simple ways to make it your own while keeping its rustic charm.

• Sprinkle sliced almonds over the batter before baking.
• Add dried cranberries for a sweet-tart twist.
• Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
• Serve with whipped butter or citrus marmalade.

Set the Mood 

Meals taste even better when the table feels inviting. Here are a few simple ways to set the mood for this recipe.

More Breakfast & Brunch Favorites

If you're anything like me, there's something special about slowing down with a homemade breakfast and a hot cup of tea. Whether you're planning a weekend brunch or simply looking for something comforting to enjoy with your morning routine, here are a few more breakfast favorites I think you'll love.

Blueberry Almond Honey Muffins

Applesauce Oatmeal Loaf

Herbed Quiche with Gruyere & Asparagus

Easy Buttermilk Biscuits

More Southern-Inspired Baking

Many of the recipes you'll find here are inspired by the traditions my parents shared with me growing up. They may have brought a little slice of the South to California, but those recipes have become part of my own kitchen story. If you enjoy homemade baked goods that blend Southern comfort with fresh, seasonal flavors, I hope you'll take a look at these favorites.

Pumpkin Spice Biscuits

Honey Nectarine Muffins

Strawberry Cornmeal Skillet Cake

Apple Ginger Scones

From My Kitchen to Yours

One of the things I love most about quick breads is that they were never meant to stay on the counter for long. They were made to be sliced while still a little warm, shared over conversation, tucked into a basket for a neighbor, or wrapped as a thoughtful homemade gift. I hope this Rustic Orange Blossom Honey Quick Bread becomes one of those recipes for you—a loaf that's just as enjoyable to share as it is to bake.

Before You Start

What makes this a quick bread?
Quick breads are leavened with baking powder and baking soda instead of yeast, so there's no rising time. That means you can mix the batter and have it in the oven in just a few minutes.

Can I substitute regular honey?
Yes. The loaf will still be delicious with clover or wildflower honey, but orange blossom honey gives it the delicate floral and citrus notes that make this recipe unique.

Why do I rub the orange zest into the sugar?
Rubbing the zest into the sugar releases the natural oils from the orange peel, giving the loaf a brighter, more evenly distributed citrus flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, the flavor develops even more after the loaf has rested for several hours. Store it tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to three days.

Can I freeze this bread?
Yes. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or freeze individual slices for an easy breakfast or afternoon snack whenever the craving strikes.

5-Ingredient Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes)

 

Make this 5-Ingredient Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad in just 20 minutes! The seventh recipe in my 5-Ingredient Meal Series features grilled halloumi, fresh spinach, cucumber, olives, and Greek vinaigrette for an easy lunch or flavorful side dish.

5-Ingredient Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes)

Some of my favorite recipes are the ones that prove you don't need a long ingredient list to make something fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor. This 5-Ingredient Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes) is one of those recipes. With golden grilled halloumi, fresh baby spinach, crisp English cucumber, briny Kalamata olives, and a bottled Greek vinaigrette, you can have a beautiful salad on the table with very little effort.

I'm excited to share that this recipe is the seventh installment in my 5-Ingredient Meal Series, where every recipe is built around just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients and comes together in 30 minutes or less. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, an easy side dish for grilled meats, or a simple way to add more fresh flavors to your week, this salad is a wonderful reminder that less really can be more.

The grilled halloumi is the star of the show, developing a warm, golden crust while staying deliciously soft inside. Paired with crisp vegetables and a tangy Greek vinaigrette, every bite is packed with texture and bold flavor, making this an easy recipe you'll find yourself coming back to again and again.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• Baby Spinach - Fresh baby spinach creates the perfect crisp, tender base for this simple salad.

• Halloumi Cheese - Use a block of halloumi and slice it into ½-inch strips before grilling.

• English Cucumber - Adds fresh crunch and balances the richness of the grilled cheese.

• Kalamata Olives - Their briny flavor complements the halloumi and Greek vinaigrette beautifully.

• Greek Vinaigrette - A good bottled Greek vinaigrette keeps this recipe quick while adding plenty of tangy flavor.

-- Equipment

You only need a handful of items to make this salad.  Here are my favorites.

(My Go-To's)

• Non-stick skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Large salad bowl
• Tongs

-- Let's Make It Together

1. Slice the halloumi.
2. Grill until golden on both sides.
3. Add spinach, cucumber, and olives to a large bowl.
4. Top with grilled halloumi.
5. Season with pepper and drizzle with vinaigrette.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

Halloumi browns best in a hot, dry non-stick skillet, so there's no need to add oil. Resist moving the cheese too soon—letting it cook undisturbed for several minutes creates that delicious golden crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy.

-- Add Your Touch

A great thing about salad is that you can make them your own.  Add in what you like.  Here are some ideas:

• Add cherry tomatoes.
• Toss in chickpeas.
• Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.
• Add fresh dill or parsley.
• Finish with a squeeze of lemon.

Set the Mood

Food is about more than just the recipe—it’s about the moment around the table. Here are a few simple ideas to set the mood when you serve this dish.

More Fresh Salads to Enjoy

If this grilled halloumi spinach salad hit the spot, I've got plenty more fresh and flavorful salads waiting for you. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, an easy side dish, or a salad hearty enough for dinner, these recipes are perfect for adding more fresh ingredients to your table.

Chicken Quinoa Salad with Spicy Cashews & Ginger Lime Dressing

Easy Taco Salad

Warm Roasted Sweet Potato & White Bean Salad

Country Chophouse Chicken Salad with Garden-Fresh Buttermilk Dressing

Nectarine & Feta Salad with Toasted Almonds

Explore the 5-Ingredient Meal Series

One of my favorite ways to simplify cooking is by proving that you don't need a long shopping list to make something delicious. This Grilled Halloumi Spinach Salad is the seventh recipe in my 5-Ingredient Meal Series, where every recipe uses just five simple ingredients and comes together in 30 minutes or less.

If you've enjoyed this recipe, I'd love for you to explore the rest of the series. You might just discover your next favorite easy meal!

     5-Ingredient Meal Series     

5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Juicy grilled steak paired with Southwestern-style salad kit, black beans, avocado, and bell peppers.

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Mini farfalle pasta tossed with Caesar salad kit, salami, pepperoncini, red onion, and Parmesan-crouton topping.

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Crisp kohlrabi and cabbage with a zesty chili-peanut dressing, lime, and cilantro — perfect for a refreshing side.

5-Ingredient Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes!) -Fresh zucchini ribbons with cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta tossed in a za’atar vinaigrette.

Easy Teriyaki Chicken Mandarin Orange Salad (5 Ingredients, 30 Minutes) — A quick, flavor-packed salad with crunchy ramen noodles, edamame, and a bright Asian-style dressing.

5-Ingredient Steak Salad for Two (Steakhouse Style in 30 Minutes) — A shortcut steakhouse-inspired salad with juicy seared steak, crisp greens, and bold flavor.

Before You Start

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can wash the spinach, slice the cucumber, and cook the halloumi ahead of time. For the freshest texture, store the ingredients separately and drizzle the Greek vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.

What is halloumi cheese?
Halloumi is a semi-firm cheese traditionally made in Cyprus. Its high melting point allows it to develop a delicious golden crust when grilled while staying soft and chewy inside, making it perfect for salads like this one.

Do I need to use a non-stick skillet?
A non-stick skillet works best because it helps the halloumi brown evenly and release easily once it's ready to flip. There's no need to add oil to the pan.

Can I serve this as a main dish?
Absolutely! This salad makes a satisfying light lunch on its own. To make it a heartier dinner, pair it with warm pita bread or add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

Can I substitute another cheese?
Halloumi is what makes this recipe unique because it holds its shape when cooked. If you can't find it, grilled paneer is the closest substitute, although the flavor and texture will be slightly different.