This simple Mexican zucchini and corn side dish is colorful and tasty! It mixes fresh zucchini, sweet corn, and spices for a delightful combo that goes well with any meal.
Honestly, it’s one of my go-to sides because it’s quick to make. Just sauté everything, and your vibrant dish is ready to impress. Plus, who can resist corn? 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is great for this dish due to its mild flavor and tender texture. If you’re out of zucchini, yellow squash works just as well. For a bit of a crunch, try using bell peppers or asparagus instead!
Corn: Sweet corn adds a lovely sweetness. You can use fresh corn, frozen, or even canned corn. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you could substitute with diced bell peppers or chopped green beans.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder are classics in Mexican cooking, giving warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust these seasonings to your taste, adding more or less depending on your heat preferences. You can also use taco seasoning as a quick substitute!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness to the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative, but you can also skip it entirely. A squeeze of lime at the end will help brighten the flavors without it.
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking zucchini just right is key to keeping it tender, not mushy. Follow these tips:
- Start cooking the onions first; they take longer to soften.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—this can steam the veggies. Use a large enough pan.
- Cook over medium heat and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Watch closely as zucchini cooks quickly; you want it tender but still slightly firm.
These steps will help make your dish colorful and full of flavor. Happy cooking!
Easy Mexican Zucchini and Corn Side Dish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Cooking Essentials
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll be serving it in about 25 minutes total. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create a cozy space for the flavors to come together.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step fills your kitchen with a warm aroma!
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it; you want the lovely fragrance without the bitterness.
4. Incorporate the Zucchini:
Now it’s time to add the diced zucchini. Cook it while stirring occasionally until it begins to soften, which should take about 5 minutes.
5. Mix in the Corn and Spices:
Throw in the corn kernels along with the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix the flavors well!
6. Final Cooking:
Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the corn is heated through. The colors will be vibrant and mouthwatering!
7. Stir in Cilantro:
Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the chopped cilantro, adding freshness to your dish.
8. Serve It Up:
Serve the dish warm and offer lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze that brightens everything up!
Enjoy this flavorful and easy Mexican-inspired zucchini and corn side dish! It’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
FAQ for Easy Mexican Zucchini and Corn Side Dish
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh Corn?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works great in this recipe. Just be sure to add it directly to the skillet without thawing it first, as it will cook quickly and blend beautifully with the zucchini and spices.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or skip it altogether. For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
This dish is naturally vegetarian and vegan! Make sure to check that any oil you use fits your dietary preferences, but otherwise, enjoy this dish as-is!
