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Calabacitas con Elote

Sauteed Zucchini and Corn
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Vibrant and colorful vegetables take center stage with the sweet burst of corn, tender bite of zucchini, and sassy kick of jalapeno in Calabacitas con Elote.

  • Author: Nicole Stover
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Sauteing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 3 medium zucchini, 1/2″ cubed
  • 1 medium sweet onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeno, diced, remove seeds for less heat if desired
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 ears of corn, kernels removed, can use 1 1/2 cups frozen corn
  • 1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Mexican oregano
  • 1/8 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/3 cup queso fresco, crumbled
  • Kosher salt and pepper to taste
  • Pico de gallo or diced tomato for topping, optional

Instructions

  1. Add the diced zucchini to a colander and sprinkle with half a teaspoon of kosher salt. Toss to combine. Allow it to drain for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Spread the zucchini out onto a paper towel lined baking sheet and pat dry. 
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Let it heat through. Add the onions and jalapeno and sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the jalapenos are tender. 
  4. Add the garlic and let it cook for one minute.
  5. Add the corn. Season with salt, pepper, ancho chili powder, cumin, and Mexican oregano. Let it cook for 4-6 minutes until tender-crisp
  6. Add the zucchini and season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring every minute until the zucchini is tender and slightly browned, but still has its texture.
  7. Turn off the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and cilantro. Taste for seasoning.
  8. Top with the cheese. Top with fresh pico de gallo or diced tomatoes if desired.

Notes

  1. Other types of cheese can be used such as cotija, asadero, Oaxaca, Monterey jack, or Chihuahua.
  2. Give each layer a little sprinkle of salt and pepper as you cook this. Zucchini especially benefits from seasoning. 

Find it online: https://beachgirlgrills.com/calabacitas-con-elote/