Enjoying Succulent Winter Squash

It's that time of year again..the time for tasty, succulent winter squash. Winter squash can be so versatile, nutritious and easy to prepare..it can fit into any meal plan. Plus, it fits easily into food budgets.

Do you ever get tired of potatoes and need a healthy alternative? Or...just want to experience a new taste sensation? Turn to winter squash..

Winter squash are nutritional powerhouses that contain minimal calories and large amounts of vitamin A, folate, magnesium, potassium, Omega-3s and B vitamins...among other nutrients. So, not only are you adding variety to your meal plan, you are nutritiously feeding your body!

Plus, if you're watching your weight....viola! This is the food for you! Winter squash contain rich amounts of dietary fiber that fills you up with few calories. :)

Winter squash fall under the 'Red and Orange Vegetable' category on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyPlate website. Check here for more nutritional information. You will be impressed by all this vegetable group has to offer:

http://www.choosemyplate.gov/foodgroups/vegetables_why.html

Here's a recipe that I enjoy instead of..or in addition to..mashed potatoes. It is a hit with my students and friends, as well..

Quick & Easy Mashed Butternut Squash

3-4 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced

¼ cup onion, chopped

1 garlic clove, chopped

¼ t Italian seasoning

dab of butter or dash of olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

Place raw squash and onion into steamer, or dutch oven with steaming basket. Cover tightly. Bring to boil over medium heat. Steam until you can poke a fork easily through the squash. It takes only about 5-8 minutes to cook.

Remove veggies and place into serving dish.

Add a dab of butter or dash of olive oil, just enough to add extra volume.

Sprinkle on garlic, Italian seasoning plus salt and pepper.

Mash ingredients thoroughly together with a fork or potato masher.

Add more seasoning, as needed.

Store any unused portion in airtight container in the refrigerator.

If you're wanting to cut back on fat, prepare recipe without using butter or oil. It takes just as good...

Butternut squash has a sweet, light taste all its own.

Enjoy!

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