Get Ready for Squash Season!!!

Are you ready for the best time of the year! There so many varieties of winter squash to enjoy.  Acorn squash, butternut squash, pumpkin, and spaghetti squash are all my favorites. 

It is peak squash season. Squash at its peak will be full of favor and serious nutrients.  Buy and eating veggies in season also means that you save money.  Here are just a few reasons why squash is so good for your body, mind, and soul:

• Squash is a rich source of plant-based anti-inflammatory nutrients like omega 3's and beta-carotene, which are important for a strong immune system.
• Squash is a great complex carb for those with blood sugar issues.  It has a low glycemic index, meaning it will not spike your blood sugar, causing you to feel tired and have cravings later on.
• Squash is a terrific source of carotenoids, which can be key players in preventing diseases like cancer.
• The polysaccharides that are found in the cell walls of squash have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic / insulin-regulating properties.
• One cup of cooked squash provides almost 6 grams of fiber.  Fiber helps to regulate blood sugar because it helps to steady digestion and sugar metabolism in our digestive tract.  It will also help you to feel full longer. 
  

If you think that winter squash is just a starchy, high-carb veggie, think again.  It is a powerhouse loaded with vitamins and minerals that we need.

How to select and store your squash
Look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size.  The rind will be dull, not glossy.  The rind should also be relatively hard.  Soft rinds may indicate that the squash will be watery and lacking in flavor.   Avoid squash that is showing signs of decay. Winter squash has a much longer storage life than summer squash. Most winter squash can be stored for at least a week if not longer.  Store in a cabinet or out the counter.
 
Simple Cooking Method
If you are new to cooking winter squash, a quick and easy method is to steam. This method works well for butternut, acorn, and pumpkin.  You will first need to remove the hard outer shell. There are tons of videos on-line to show you how. You can also find pre-cut butternut at most stores.  Once you have it peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes.  Then steam for 7 minutes till fork-tender.   I like to cook my spaghetti squash in my Instant Pot. 

Simple easy uses for your cooked squash

• Puree your cooked winter squash and top with cinnamon and little maple syrup.
• Top your spaghetti squash with your favorite pasta sauce
• Add cubes of winter squash to soups for an extra veggie
• Top your steamed cubes of winter squash with olive oil, coconut aminos, ginger, and pumpkin seeds
  

If you are ready for winter squash to be the star of your meals, check out this recipe collection. 

• Pumpkin Spice
• Bison Pumpkin Chili
• Sausage & Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
• Roasted Butternut Squash Harvest Bowl
• Slow Cooker Bolognese with Spaghetti Squash

Winter Squash Recipe Collection

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