Zucchini! Zucchini! Calabacitas!

Calabacitas is a lovely zucchini and corn dish that rounds out the summer nicely. A Mexican side dish, it can also be a main dish when served with corn tortillas, arepas, a salad or on top of a salad or potatoes.

Zucchini straight from the garden is great in this dish. Of course there is nothing wrong with buying at the store or local farmer's market. This year was my first year growing squash. I learned the hard way, that zucchini can grow to be quite large if you don't remove them from their vine. Smaller zucchini will have more flavor. It is fun to grow large zucchini, but I found they are hollow and I wonder if the nutritional content is lessened by its overgrowth.

Roasted corn is sweet and a treat to enjoy. Corn is actually a grain and can cause people who are sensitive to sugar some distress in regards to the stability of their blood sugar. If that is a concern for you it might be wise to avoid corn and other foods that convert to sugar readily such as white potatoes, white rice and many gluten free products that are high in carbohydrates. These products contain tapioca/corn or potato starches, white rice flour and/or sorghum flour. When eating anything that is high in sugar, adding additional fat to the meal will slow the absorption of sugar into the blood stream.

Onions contain antioxidants, assist in the repair of our cells and can detoxify. Onions are best raw or lightly steamed.

Green chillies are abundant this time of year. Green chillies can be found roasted in many places in your locale. Chillies contain capsaicin, an anti-inflammatory chemical that is found in topical muscle/joint rubs. They also contain Vitamin C and A. When working with chillies wearing gloves will prevent the capsaicin and oils from the plant getting on to your skin. Wash your hands after working with chillies. If you work with them using your bare hands, don't touch your face or eyes after contact with the chillies as the oils can be retained on your skin and burn your eyes when you touch them. This can occur even after washing your hands.

Calabacitas

1 4 oz. can of diced green chilies

2 ears of roasted corn, shucked (raw is ok too)

3 small zucchini

1 onion diced

olive oil

sea salt

fresh ground pepper

In a skillet coated with olive oil over medium heat, saute the zucchini and onions. Saute lightly, add chilies and corn. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper.