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yellow squash and green zucchini cooked with tomatoes and indian spices

Indian-Spiced Summer Squash

This recipe can be served with basmati rice and lentils (dal).  Full of flavor and nutrients, you can enjoy this dish, knowing that you're also treating your body well!

Servings 4 people
Author chifriendlyeats

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp cooking oil (I prefer grapeseed or avocado oil)
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 jalepeno or green chili (deseeded if you want to reduce the heat)
  • 1 medium tomato diced
  • 1 yellow squash diced
  • 2 green zucchini diced
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • sprinkle chili powder to taste
  • salt to taste
  • 1 handful cilantro chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat a medium pan (one with a lid) with 1 tsp of cooking oil to medium heat.

  2. Pour 1/2 tsp whole cumin seeds into palm of one hand and firmly massage them with the thumb of your other hand to release the oils.  

  3. Sprinkle the cumin into the heated oil - you should hear a little sizzle. If your spices start smoking, then your oil is too hot - remove the pan from the heat to cool the temperature down and return to lowered heat once the temperature has calmed.

  4. Add the cut jalepeno to the hot oil - this should sizzle too and will add flavor (and heat, depending on your jalepeno) to your dish.

  5. Once you can start to smell the cumin release its aroma, it's time to put in the diced tomato. The liquid from the tomato will make a sizzle, so keep a lid close by to shield from splattering in case it is needed. Stir the tomatoes into the cumin and let them cook down for 1-2 minutes.  

  6. Add the zucchini and squash into the pan stirring to combine all the ingredients, then cover to let the vegetables cook down a little (3-4 minutes).

    diced zucchini and yellow squash
  7. Remove the lid and stir.  Then sprinkle in the turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Stir to combine and allow about 4-5 minutes for the vegetables to cook.  They should be tender, not mushy.  Garnish with cilantro.

Recipe Notes

This Indian-spiced summer squash recipe can be enjoyed with Indian bread, like naan, or over some basmati rice and lentils (dal).  If you are feeling adventurous or have left-overs, mix in some black beans and cumin powder and enjoy these vegetables in a taco!