The Other Side Of Mexican Cooking
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| The Other Side Of Mexican Cooking | Zucchini & Red Pepper Salsa |
Although high-quality bell peppers, summer squash, and cucumbers have yet to arrive in farmer's markets, they're crisp, fresh, and plentiful at the supermarket—and almost certainly imported from Mexico
Many people are unaware that Mexico exports much more than chiles, avocados, tomatoes, limes, and other produce commonly associated with Mexican cuisine. Bell peppers of all colors, summer squash of many sorts, and cucumbers of various varieties are all readily available in our warm and sunny neighbor to the south.
Mexico has been exporting high-quality goods to the United States for over a century. Before crossing the border into the United States, all Mexican produce is subjected to stringent quality and safety inspections, ensuring that it is safe and fresh. It's also good for you: Beta-carotene and vitamin C levels are high in red, yellow, and orange bell peppers. Cucumbers are only 39 calories per in standard size. In addition, yellow squash and zucchini are high in magnesium.
This month, try these vegetables in salads, atop sandwiches, or in a stir-fry. Summer squash and red bell peppers can also be used in salsa.
Salsa with Zucchini and Red Peppers
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| The Other Side Of Mexican Cooking | Zucchini & Red Pepper Salsa |
2 lbs. zucchini (look for small to medium ones)
2 medium red bell peppers, seeds and julienne cut
1/2 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
2 seeded and minced serrano chiles
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
a half teaspoon of salt, or more to taste
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Place zucchini in a medium bowl after trimming and dicing it. Red pepper julienne, cucumber, red onion, and chilies Toss with olive oil, lime juice, and salt until well combined. Serve with yellow or blue tortilla chips, circular slices of jicama, or thin slices of French bread after gently stirring in cilantro. This recipe serves 8 people.