Mexican Squash

Brighten up your dinner table with this quick and flavorful Mexican Squash recipe, a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables and bold spices that’s both healthy and delicious. Tender slices of Mexican squash (also known as calabacitas) are sautéed with sweet corn kernels, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, then seasoned with smoky cumin and chili powder for a subtle kick. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and optional crumbled Cotija cheese, this easy 15-minute side dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or rice. Serve it with lime wedges for a refreshing burst of citrus to elevate every bite. Perfect for anyone seeking a fast, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly option, this recipe celebrates traditional Mexican flavors in every mouthwatering spoonful!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized Mexican squash (also called calabacitas or zucchinis)
• 1 medium-sized Yellow onion
• 3 Garlic cloves
• 1 large Tomato
• 1 cup Fresh corn kernels
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 0.75 teaspoons Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
• 0.25 cup Cilantro
• 0.25 cup Cotija cheese (optional)
• 1 Lime

Directions

Step 1

Wash and dry the Mexican squash, onion, tomato, and cilantro.

Step 2

Slice the Mexican squash into thin half-moon shapes. Dice the onion and tomato into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Roughly chop the cilantro. Set everything aside.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the sliced Mexican squash to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash begins to soften.

Step 7

Mix in the diced tomato, fresh corn kernels, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 8

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.

Step 9

Optional: Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese on top for an added salty, tangy flavor.

Step 10

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus just before eating.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1470.8 grams (1470.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	961

Total Fat 52.00g	67%
Saturated Fat 18.40g	92%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.80g
Cholesterol 53mg	18%
Sodium 4503mg	196%
Total Carbohydrate 106.90g	39%
Dietary Fiber 20.50g	73%
Total Sugars 52.10g
Protein 35.80g	72%

Vitamin D 13IU	64%
Calcium 646mg	50%
Iron 8mg	43%
Potassium 3039mg	65%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.1%

Protein: 13.8%

Carbs: 41.2%