Papalotes de Verdura
Papalotes de Verdura are vibrant and healthy Mexican appetizers made from fresh vegetables wrapped in corn masa, delivering a burst of flavor with each bite. These beautifully steamed parcels are perfect for sharing and showcase the rich agricultural heritage of Mexico.

40 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Mexican
190 kcal
Ingredients
- Corn masa - 200 grams
- Zucchini - 100 grams, diced
- Red bell pepper - 50 grams, diced
- Carrot - 50 grams, grated
- Spinach - 50 grams, chopped
- Onion - 30 grams, finely chopped
- Garlic - 1 clove, minced
- Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
- Cumin - 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
- Corn husks - 6 pieces, soaked in warm water
Steps
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add zucchini, red bell pepper, carrot, and spinach to the skillet. Season with cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with corn masa. Mix well until a dough forms.
- Take a soaked corn husk and spread a portion of the masa mixture on it, flattening to form a rectangle. Leave some space at the edges.
- Fold the sides of the corn husk over the masa, then roll from the bottom to the top to create a packet. Secure with kitchen twine if necessary.
- Repeat with remaining husks and masa mixture.
- Place papalotes in a steamer basket, cover, and steam for 20-25 minutes until masa is firm and cooked through.
- Serve warm with salsa or a light dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbs: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Total Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Water: 0.2 L
Health Benefits
- Rich in fiber which supports digestive health.
- Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
Tags
MexicanHealthyAppetizer