Spanish Squash
Spanish Squash is a simple, hearty vegetable dish featuring tender zucchini and ripe tomatoes, accented with aromatic bay leaves. Perfect for a light lunch or side, it highlights fresh flavors and quick preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights or healthy meals that satisfy the palate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sliced onion in a little salad oil until tender, but not brown.
- Add peeled, sliced, and cooked tomatoes, sliced zucchini, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cook slowly, adding a small amount of water if needed.
- Add bay leaf, if desired, and continue cooking until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Spanish Squash, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs like basil or oregano. If you don't have salad oil, olive oil works well as a substitute. For a heartier dish, you can include bell peppers or even some chickpeas. Keep an eye on the zucchini to avoid overcooking, as it can become mushy quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Spanish Squash as a delightful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Lettie'S French Bread for a satisfying dinner. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with quinoa or brown rice for added protein and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the squash in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Squash contains roughly 645 calories, with 13g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value), and calcium (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2164mg per serving (94% 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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned. You'll need about 2-3 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Just ensure they cook down sufficiently to create a sauce-like consistency.
What can I use instead of bay leaf?
If you don't have bay leaves, you can substitute with a pinch of dried thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that it may alter the traditional taste of the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This Spanish Squash recipe is naturally vegan, making it a perfect addition to any vegan meal plan. You can also browse more vegan recipes to complement this dish.
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).