Cheesy Cilantro and Chili Zucchini Recipe
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
This Cheesy Cilantro and Chili Zucchini dish is an excellent choice for a light vegetarian lunch or a delightful side to complement grilled chicken or steaks. The fresh flavors of cilantro, parsley, and a touch of chili create a perfect balance, while the addition of olives adds a unique twist. The zucchini, a summer vegetable, absorbs all the rich and aromatic ingredients, making each bite a satisfying experience. If you prefer, yellow summer squash can be substituted for zucchini, offering a slightly different texture but equally delicious taste. This dish serves two as a light lunch or three to four as a side dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini (sliced) | 2 |
| Plum tomatoes (diced) | 2 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1/2 |
| Fresh cilantro (chopped) | 4 tbsp |
| Fresh flat-leaf parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| White wine | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Black olives (pitted) | 1/4 cup |
| Green olives (pitted) | 1/4 cup |
| Monterey Jack cheese (grated) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 322.4 kcal |
| Fat Content | 19.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 50.3 mg |
| Sodium | 472.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 12.3 g |
| Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugar | 5.6 g |
| Protein | 16.5 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the ingredients:
Begin by slicing the zucchini into rounds. Dice the plum tomatoes and chop the onion, cilantro, and flat-leaf parsley. Mince the garlic, and if you’re using jalapenos or chili peppers, finely chop them as well. -
Cook the vegetables:
In a large skillet, combine the zucchini slices, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, parsley, minced garlic, chili peppers (to your desired heat level), white wine, and water. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are well-distributed. -
Simmer the zucchini:
Cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep a close eye on the zucchini to prevent it from becoming mushy. The liquid will reduce, but be careful not to let the pan dry out—if necessary, add a splash of water to keep everything moist. -
Add the olives and cheese:
Stir in the black and green olives, followed by the grated Monterey Jack cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to stir gently, allowing the cheese to melt into the vegetable mixture. -
Serve:
Once the cheese has melted and everything is evenly combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the dish immediately, either as a light lunch or as a flavorful side dish to grilled chicken or steak.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Cilantro and Chili Zucchini is perfect when paired with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a wholesome lunch. It also makes a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. You can also enjoy it on its own, topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs.
Tips & Variations
- Olive Options: If you prefer a more robust olive flavor, feel free to add more black or green olives or use a mix of other varieties such as Kalamata for an extra zing.
- Cheese Alternatives: While Monterey Jack cheese works beautifully in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even a tangy goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapenos or chili peppers to suit your taste. For a milder version, omit the peppers altogether or use a mild chili like a bell pepper.
- Summer Squash: If zucchini is not available or you want to try something different, yellow summer squash can be used as a substitute. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still absorb the wonderful flavors of the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is an easy, flavorful, and nutrient-packed option for those seeking a quick and light meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, zesty cilantro, and creamy Monterey Jack cheese offers a satisfying, low-carb alternative that is both healthy and indulgent. Whether you’re enjoying it as a solo meal or as a side to grilled meats, the burst of flavors and the comfort of melted cheese will surely make it a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
