In Season: Winter Squash
Butternut squash photo by Martin Cathrae via Flickr/Creative Commons
Stepping into a big box grocery store, it’s easy to think that all produce grows all year round—but that’s hardly the case. In this series, we’ll highlight one in-season produce pick a week.
Winter Squash
Nutrition: No matter which variety of squash you prefer—from acorn to spaghetti—it’ll be packed full of key antioxidants, vitamin C, and beta-carotene.
Why that matters: As flu season approaches, squash’s antioxidants and vitamin C will boost your immune system, while the beta-carotene and omega-3 acids keep your skin healthy through drying cold weather.
Where to find it: These days, winter squash is everywhere—expect your neighborhood grocery stores and farmers markets to stock up in anticipation of Thanksgiving.
Five winter squash recipes:
1. Quinoa-Stuffed Sweet Dumpling Squash
via the Kitchn
These petite “dumplings” make perfect healthy appetizers or shareable meals. Add dates and pistachios for a uniquely earthy blend of flavors.
2. Pesto Spaghetti Squash with Prawns
via The Lush Nest
Why not treat spaghetti squash just like, well, actual spaghetti? With the addition of parmesan, tomatoes, fresh pesto, and pan-seared shrimp, your tastebuds won’t know the difference.
3. Butternut Squash Pizza with White Sauce, Spinach, and Goat Cheese
via My Recipes
The best part of this healthy take on pizza is its versatility. The recipe can be made with whatever type of low-fat cheese (like feta or mozzarella) and veggies you prefer, for a custom crowd-pleaser that keeps for days.
4. Roasted Beet and Winter Squash Salad with Walnuts
via NYT Cooking
This mixture of orange kabocha squash, beets, and fresh herbs yields a rich flavor (and color) palate full of healthy fiber and potassium.
5. Citrus-Glazed Banana Squash
via All Recipes
With so many varieties of squash on the shelves, underdog banana squash often gets lost in the pile. Give this long, tangy variety the love it deserves by cooking it in a sweet citrus glaze.
