Calabasitas Zucchini Casserole
Calabasitas Zucchini Casserole is a savory, cheesy dish featuring stir-fried zucchini, onion, garlic, and tomatoes, perfect for a flavorful vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced zucchini and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
- Stir in sliced onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cumin or chili powder to the zucchini mixture. If you don't have Longhorn or Colby cheese, cheddar or Monterey Jack are great alternatives. For a healthier twist, you can substitute half the cheese with Greek yogurt to lower the fat content. Make sure to salt the zucchini beforehand to draw out excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This Calabasitas Zucchini Casserole pairs beautifully with Enchilada Casserole(Mexican) or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Serve it with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a more substantial dish, consider adding black beans or corn, making it a heartier vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calabasitas Zucchini Casserole contains roughly 1763 calories, with 11g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 170g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2436mg per serving (106% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the canned tomatoes?
If you prefer fresh ingredients, you can substitute the canned tomatoes with about 4 cups of diced fresh tomatoes. Just be sure to cook them down a bit longer to reduce excess liquid before adding to the casserole.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).