Mexicale Zucchini
A vibrant and healthy Mexican-inspired vegetable stir-fry featuring zucchini, carrots, and tomatoes, perfect for a quick, flavorful, and colorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced zucchini, shredded carrot, chopped onion, chopped celery, green pepper strips, garlic, and basil.
- Cook covered for about 5 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add chopped tomatoes and salsa, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, consider adding black beans or corn to your Mexicale Zucchini for extra texture and flavor. If you're out of fresh basil, dried basil can be a great substitute. You can also use any type of salsa you have on hand, such as Gracie'S Salsa or Orvis Salsa, to enhance the dish's taste. Adjust the garlic according to your preference for a stronger flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mexicale Zucchini warm as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a vegetarian or vegan option, enjoy it with Abuelita'S Flour Tortillas for a satisfying meal. You could also serve it alongside a refreshing salad or with a scoop of Pretty Darn Good Bean Dip for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the Mexicale Zucchini in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicale Zucchini contains roughly 1257 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking to prevent excess moisture. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as frozen veggies may release more water than fresh.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Mexicale Zucchini is perfect for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated. Consider portioning it out into individual containers for convenient lunches throughout the week.
What can I add for extra protein?
To boost the protein content, you can add cooked quinoa, black beans, or even diced grilled chicken. This will make the dish more filling and satisfying, especially if you're looking for a complete meal.
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).