Zucchini And Chilies
A vibrant zucchini and chili dish with melted Jack cheese, perfect for those craving a flavorful, easy-to-make vegetarian meal with a hint of spice and creamy cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook zucchini until tender over medium heat.
- Drain the cooked zucchini.
- In a skillet, heat salad oil and sauté diced onion.
- Add chopped tomatoes, green chiles, salt, pepper, and garlic powder; blend well.
- Cook for a few minutes over reduced heat.
- Add shredded Jack cheese and mix in well until melted.
- Cover and heat for 1 to 2 minutes until cheese is fully melted.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of zucchini and yellow squash. If you prefer more heat, you can substitute the green chiles with jalapeños. To save time, use pre-diced onions or canned tomatoes. Make sure to drain the zucchini well to avoid excess moisture in the dish, which can dilute the flavors. This recipe is also suitable for those looking for vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot as a flavorful side with grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Bean And Cheese Enchiladas or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or with a dollop of Mexicana Crema (Sour Cream) for extra creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated evenly. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini And Chilies contains roughly 372 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1568mg per serving (68% 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 frozen zucchini for this recipe?
While fresh zucchini is preferred for its texture, you can use frozen zucchini if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess water before cooking, as frozen zucchini tends to release more moisture when cooked.
What can I substitute for Jack cheese?
If you don't have Jack cheese, you can substitute it with cheddar or mozzarella for a similar melting quality. For a more robust flavor, try using pepper jack cheese, which will also enhance the dish with a nice kick of spice.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spiciness of this dish, you can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. You could also top the finished dish with sliced fresh chili peppers or serve it with a spicy salsa on the side for an extra kick.
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).