Eat Better Feel Better

Many people strive to eat local, seasonal produce. But what should you do when it’s winter and fresh, local produce is difficult to find? Winter is the perfect time to explore the cornucopia of squash options.

With their large size and tough skin, squash may seem daunting, but they’re worth the trouble! Squash is packed with fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin A, and can help keep you feeling full even though it’s relatively low in calories. Squash can be incorporated into many dishes or can even be a satisfying main course. Here are some ideas to get started:

Spaghetti squash is a great place to begin your squash exploration. Once cooked, spaghetti squash turns into skinny strands that look a lot like spaghetti! You can add toppings to it just like your favorite pasta dish. (See recipe, below)

Butternut squash is another delicious choice. Peel the squash, then cut off the ends and halve the squash lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds. Cut the squash into bite-sized cubes. These can be sautéed in a pan for about 15 minutes. Try this recipe for a real treat to satisfy that pizza craving.

You’ll likely find acorn squash, kabocha squash, Hubbard squash, and others at your grocery store throughout the winter. If you find a squash you’ve never tried before, they all can follow a similar preparation process:

1. Wash the squash.
2. Consider if peeling is needed – not all squash requires peeling (a quick Google search will tell you). Many kinds of squash are very difficult to peel and it might be better to bake it and figure out how to deal with the skin after.
3. Halve the squash.
4. Scoop out the seeds.
5. Cut into pieces (cubes work well if the squash is peeled, half-moons work fine peeled or unpeeled, just leaving the squash cut in half can be good if you want squash bowls).
6. Lightly coat in oil.
7. Add spices to taste.
8. Bake until tender. Oven temperatures and cook times vary.

Roasting and sautéing are good places to start, but don’t forget about soups and even baked goods! Experiment and see how squash can brighten up your winter!

Try our Spaghetti Squash with Basil Tomato Sauce!