Calabacitas Recipe With Pork: Easy and Delicious Meal

Calabacitas, a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, showcases the versatility and vibrant flavors of summer squash cooked with fresh ingredients. When combined with tender, seasoned pork, this recipe transforms into a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or explore new ways to enjoy vegetables alongside a protein, this calabacitas with pork recipe hits all the right notes. The combination of sautéed zucchini, corn, tomatoes, and flavorful pork creates a savory, comforting dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Easy to prepare and loaded with fresh veggies, calabacitas with pork brings warmth and color to your plate. This dish can be enjoyed on its own, served over rice, or wrapped in warm tortillas for a casual, family-friendly meal.

If you love hearty yet healthy meals packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This calabacitas recipe with pork is a perfect combination of fresh vegetables and rich, savory meat, making it a balanced and wholesome dish. It’s quick to prepare, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge.

The pork adds a lovely depth of flavor and protein, while the calabacitas (zucchini and corn) keep the dish light and fresh.

Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is flexible — you can swap out the pork for chicken or turkey if you prefer, or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easily adapted to suit your dietary needs.

The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing as well, ensuring it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of half a lime

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the pork: Pat the pork pieces dry with paper towels to ensure they brown properly. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Cook the pork: Add the pork pieces to the hot skillet and sauté until they develop a golden-brown crust on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.
4. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
5. Add vegetables: Stir in the diced zucchini, corn kernels, and tomatoes. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
6. Combine pork and veggies: Return the browned pork to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Season and finish: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Turn off the heat, then squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
8. Serve warm: Serve your calabacitas with pork immediately, with warm tortillas, rice, or enjoy it on its own!

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, use fresh, in-season zucchini and corn. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen works well too.

You can easily swap pork for other proteins like chicken or ground beef depending on your preference. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat entirely and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or black beans for protein.

Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky twist. If you like your calabacitas spicier, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce.

To make this dish even richer, sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or grated Cotija cheese on top just before serving. For a creamier texture, stir in a couple of tablespoons of Mexican crema or sour cream.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This calabacitas with pork pairs wonderfully with warm corn or flour tortillas for a delicious taco-style meal. You can also serve it over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the savory juices.

For a lighter option, try serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted sweet potatoes. A dollop of guacamole or a side of pickled jalapeños can add extra layers of flavor.

Looking for a complete Mexican-inspired meal? Pair this dish with our Mexican rice recipe or try it alongside black bean soup for a comforting and filling dinner.

Conclusion

Calabacitas with pork is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the best of fresh vegetables and savory meat in a single skillet. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a satisfying and colorful meal that’s full of texture and taste.

With its combination of tender pork, sweet corn, and tender zucchini, this dish provides a wonderful balance of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Try it with different spices or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.

Happy cooking!

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