Calabacitas
A vibrant Southwestern classic, this dish features tender zucchini and yellow squash sautéed with sweet corn, mild green chiles, and melted cheese. It's a quick, flavorful side or a light vegetarian main.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- c.Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- d.Add the minced garlic, cumin powder, and dried oregano. Sauté for 1 minute more until the spices are fragrant.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook Squash and Corn
- b.Add the diced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper.
- c.Cook, stirring frequently, for 6-8 minutes, until the squash is tender but still has a slight bite (tender-crisp). Avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- d.Stir in the corn kernels and the undrained can of diced green chiles. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the corn to heat through.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add Cheese and Serve
- b.Remove the skillet from the heat.
- c.Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the vegetable mixture.
- d.Gently fold the cheese into the calabacitas until it is just melted and creamy. Alternatively, you can cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes off the heat to let the cheese melt on top.
- e.Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, avoid overcooking the squash. It should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- 2If you can find fresh roasted Hatch or Anaheim chiles, they will elevate the flavor significantly.
- 3Mexican oregano has a more earthy, citrusy flavor that complements this dish perfectly, but regular oregano works too.
- 4To save time, you can use pre-cut zucchini and squash from the grocery store.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture will soften upon reheating.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Omit the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese alternative to make this dish completely plant-based.
SpicierSpicier
Sauté one finely chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onion for an extra kick of heat.
Add ProteinAdd Protein
Stir in 1 cup of cooked black beans, pinto beans, or shredded chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a heartier main course.
Creamy VersionCreamy Version
For a richer, creamier texture, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of Mexican crema or heavy cream just before adding the cheese.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Zucchini and yellow squash provide Vitamin C and potassium, while corn offers B vitamins. These nutrients support overall health, from immune function to energy metabolism.
Good Source of Dietary Fiber
The combination of squash, corn, and onion delivers a healthy dose of fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps you feel full and satisfied.
Promotes Hydration
Summer squash like zucchini and yellow squash have a high water content, which can contribute to your daily hydration needs, essential for many bodily functions.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Calabacitas is a very healthy dish. It's packed with vegetables like zucchini, squash, and corn, providing a good source of fiber, vitamins (like Vitamin C and B vitamins), and minerals. To make it even healthier, you can reduce the amount of cheese and oil.