What always surprises me the most about traditional Mexican recipes is how a simple dish can be packed with so much flavor. I think that the key to achieve a flavorful dish with only a few ingredients is to use the freshest produce possible.

Zucchini is such a staple vegetable during the summer months. Gardens and farmers markets are filled with a variety of summer squash.

Traditionally in Mexico, they use a pale green zucchini. I have been able to find it at my local farmers market during the summer months. When it's in season I take advantage of the short growing season.

One of my favorite recipes using the traditional pale green zucchini is Calabacitas a la Mexicana, which translates to Mexican style zucchini.

This recipe only requires a few simple ingredients but takes less than 20 minutes to cook. As the tomato cooks, it breaks down and creates a light tomato broth. At the end I like to add fresh cilantro. I happen to love cilantro, but if you aren't a fan simply leave it out!

Calabacitas a la Mexicana makes a wonderful vegetable side dish for dinner. It also makes a delicious taco filling. If I'm making tacos with the Calabacitas a la Mexicana, I like to serve creamy ripe avocado slices and salsa alongside. This is one of my favorite quick and easy summer meals.

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Calabacitas a la Mexicana

Yield: 4 to 6 Servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 17 minutes

Calabacitas a la Mexicana makes a wonderful vegetable side dish for dinner. It also makes a delicious taco filling. If I'm making tacos with the Calabacitas a la Mexicana, I like to serve creamy ripe avocado slices and salsa alongside. This is one of my favorite quick and easy summer meals

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Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• ¼ White Onion, finely diced
• 1 Jalapeno, minced, seeded for less heat
• 1 Garlic Clove, minced
• 3 Medium Pale Green Zucchini, diced small
• 1 Large Tomato, finely diced
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• optional: ¼ Cup Cilantro, minced

Instructions

1. In a large deep skillet heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and jalapeno. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Add in the diced zucchini, tomato, salt and pepper to taste. Stir.
3. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add in the chopped cilantro if using.
5. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
6. Serve!

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XO Jeni