This Easy Calabacitas recipe is all about fresh veggies like zucchini, corn, and bell peppers. It’s colorful, healthy, and super tasty!
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just toss everything in a skillet, and you’ve got a delicious side dish. Perfect for any meal or just snack time! 🌽🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Both bring moisture and texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, you can replace it with more zucchini or even use eggplant for a different flavor.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness, but frozen or canned corn can work too. Just make sure to drain canned corn well before using.
Bell Pepper: A green bell pepper gives a slight bitterness that contrasts nicely. Feel free to use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a sweeter touch.
Onion: Yellow onions are the go-to, but white onions or shallots will also work. For a milder onion flavor, consider using green onions.
Spices: Ground cumin adds warmth. You can replace it with smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky taste, or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
How Do You Make Sure Your Veggies Stay Crisp?
The key to keeping your vegetables tender yet crispy lies in cooking time and heat. Follow these tips to get that perfect texture:
- Start with medium heat to allow the onions to soften without burning.
- Add the harder veggies like zucchini and squash first, giving them a head start to cook.
- Stir occasionally, letting the veggies sear in parts for that delicious flavor but don’t overcook!
- Adding tomatoes towards the end prevents them from becoming mushy and helps maintain the veggies’ freshness.
Easy Calabacitas Recipe with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Veggies:
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium yellow squash, diced
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Oil:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1-2 jalapeños, diced (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Calabacitas recipe takes about 25 minutes total: around 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and healthy dish that’s great for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create the perfect base for your veggies to sauté and develop flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and begins to soften. This step builds a nice flavor base.
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Stir in your minced garlic, ground cumin, and diced jalapeños (if you’re using them). Cook for another minute until everything is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Combine the Fresh Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the diced zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, and fresh corn kernels. Stir everything together to coat the veggies in that flavorful oil.
5. Cook the Vegetables:
Let the vegetables cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a bit of crunch. This way, the dish remains light and fresh!
6. Add the Tomato:
Next, add the diced tomato to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to mix everything together and warm the tomato through.
7. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle salt and pepper to your liking, tasting as you go to ensure the flavors are just right.
8. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat, and if you like, sprinkle the chopped cilantro on top for a fresh kick. Serve warm as a tasty side dish or a light main course. Enjoy your delicious calabacitas!
FAQ for Easy Calabacitas Recipe
Can I Customize the Veggies in This Dish?
Absolutely! Calabacitas is versatile, so feel free to swap in other vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or even spinach. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the veggies you choose!
How Do I Store Leftover Calabacitas?
To store leftovers, let the calabacitas cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy heat, you can add more jalapeños, or even include a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a bit of chipotle powder as well.
What Do I Serve Calabacitas With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or tortillas. You can also serve it as a side with grilled meats or fish for a balanced meal. It’s also great on its own for a light lunch!
