This delicious Southwestern-flavored casserole is a much-requested recipe at the 410 Diner. It can be served as a vegetarian entree or as a side dish. When my family comes to visit, we always eat at 410 Diner, and the Sonora Casserole is one of the reasons. It's a favorite of vegetarians and carnivores alike.

410 DINER'S SONORA CASSEROLE

2 cups tomato sauce

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1-1/2 tablespoons chili powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon white vinegar

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

salt to taste

6 corn tortillas

Hot vegetable oil

3 cups sliced zucchini

1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels

1 (4-ounce) can mild diced green chiles, drained

1-1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese

3/4 cup sour cream

2 green onions, sliced thinly

Preheat oven to 350F. Combine tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, vinegar, garlic, and salt in a pan. Heat and simmer gently.

Slice tortillas into 1/8 inch strips and fry in hot oil. Drain well.

Boil or steam zucchini until it is tender, then drain. In a large bowl, combine zucchini, tortilla strips, corn, green chiles, and 3/4 cup of the cheese. Spoon mixture into a well-greased 9-by-13 inch baking dish, then spread tomato sauce on top and remaining 3/4 cup cheese on top. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until mixture begins to bubble. Remove from oven and spread sour cream on top. Sprinkle with green onions and serve. Serves 8 as an entree, 12 as a side dish.

The 410 Diner is located at 8315 Broadway just inside Loop 410.