Recipe: Calabacitas

This is a traditional dish in New Mexico, which the Pueblo Indians taught to the Spanish. Calabaza means squash or pumpkin in Spanish, and this dish uses any squash that is in season. In the summer, use zucchini and yellow squash, and in the autumn and winter months, use butternut squash or pumpkin. This side can become a main dish by putting it in a casserole and baking it with chicken or beef. This version is vegetarian and cooks on top of the stove in 20 minutes.

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The Indulgence: Summer Squash

Squash aren't ostentatious vegetables. They're incredibly good for you, because they're low in calories and high in vitamins. They are not rare or expensive. In fact, if you know anyone with a garden then you probably have more zucchini than you know what to do with at least once a year. Raw, sauteed, steamed, baked, fried, stuffed, braised or roasted, there's really nothing you can't do to squash. Unfortunately, one consequence of this versatility is that all sorts of culinary crimes are perpetrated against this tender, delicate, wallflower of a vegetable. Remember, just because it's inexpensive and widely available doesn't mean you should take it for granted. Give your squash a little attention, and they'll have you swooning over the quality of their flavor and texture. While summer squash (which are picked before they fully mature) are available year round, high season is June through early October, so tell your favorite gardener to bring it on. With our delicious recipes to inspire you, you won't be able to get enough of this nutritious indulgence. (read more)


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