Mayan Heirloom Squash with Tomatoes and Basil

What is Mayan Heirloom Squash?

Mayan Heirloom Squash with Tomatoes and Basil is a simple dish that lets the natural flavours of the vegetables shine. Similar to zucchini in flavour and texture, the squash becomes tender when cooked and pairs perfectly with sweet tomatoes and fresh basil.

When I was grocery shopping at Costco here in Canada last week, I came across these bags of Mayan Heirloom Squash and thought they looked rather interesting, so I picked up a bag to try. There was a sample stand featuring them and, from what I could tell, they were simply sautéing them in butter. After trying them myself, I found them to be mild and delicate, making them perfect for simple recipes like this where the fresh ingredients can really stand out.

For those of you who have no idea what  Mayan Heirloom Squash is, then this is what they look like:

Variations and Substitutes

There are plenty of ways to adapt this Mayan Heirloom Squash with Tomatoes and Basil depending on what you have on hand, whether you want to change the vegetables or add extra flavour.

• Squash Swap: If you cannot find Mayan heirloom squash, zucchini/courgette is the best substitute and works almost identically in this recipe. Yellow summer squash would also work well.
• Tomatoes: Fresh chopped tomatoes add lovely freshness, but you can use canned tomatoes if preferred. Just be sure to choose a good quality brand, as the flavour of the tomatoes is a key part of the dish. Cherry or grape tomatoes are also great options.
• Extra Vegetables: Sweetcorn works really well in this dish, adding little bursts of sweetness that pair nicely with the tomatoes and basil. Baby spinach is another great addition and can be stirred in at the end until just wilted. Bell peppers, mushrooms or diced zucchini are also delicious additions.
• Onion: Red onion can be used instead of regular onion for a slightly sweeter flavour and a pop of colour.
• Herbs: Fresh basil is the perfect pairing with tomatoes, but fresh parsley, oregano or thyme can also work well. A combination of basil and parsley is particularly delicious.
• Seasoning: If you do not have garlic pepper seasoning, simply use salt, black pepper and a little garlic powder or extra fresh garlic.
• Vary the Acidity: Balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, but red wine vinegar, white balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can be used instead.
• Add Cheese: A sprinkle of grated parmesan, crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella makes a delicious addition and pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and basil.
• Make It a Meal: Serve the squash over pasta, quinoa or rice, or add some grilled chicken, prawns/shrimp or chickpeas to turn it into a more substantial meal.

How to Make Mayan Heirloom Squash with Tomatoes and Basil

1. Step 1: Half and slice the squash so you have half circle slices

2. Step 2: Gather rest of the ingredients

3. Step 3: Place a frying pan over a medium, add the olive oil. Fry onion and garlic until softened.

4. Step 4: Add the Mayan Heirloom Squash and a few grinds of garlic pepper and fry for a further 5 mins

5. Step 5: Add the tomatoes, fresh basil and a splash of balsamic vinegar and continue to cook until all veg is soften.

6. Step 6: Then it is all ready to enjoy as a side to any meal you like.