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Winter Squash
In season: September-November

October 28, 2010

By Janice Benson
Marketing Coordinator

When the weather turns cool, winter squash warms me up. The sunny flesh of butternut squash chases away my late autumn blues. The lively carnival squash makes me feel festive. The buttery-sweet smell of acorn squash makes me feel toasty from the inside out! And delicata, with its delectable flavor, makes me slow down and savor every bite.

Winter squash are abundant and they are indispensible in my fall cooking. Soul-satisfying soups, heartwarming entrees, and sumptuous muffins are some of my favorites. Any way you prepare them, these plump members of the gourd family are power-packed with nutrition and a pleasing way to warm up a chilly autumn evening!

Selecting and Storing

Select firm fruit that feels heavy for its size, with a bit of the vine still attached.
Avoid ones with nicks, bruises, or soft spots, as they will be more likely to decay.
Store in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. Squash can be stored this way for a few months. Once cut, squash should be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Fun Facts

Squash is technically a fruit, as it contains seeds.
They are members of the gourd family.
Most of the squash plant is edible, including the seeds, the flesh, and the flowers.
George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were enthusiastic squash growers!

Nutritional Information:

Winter squash are high in Vitamin A, B6, C, niacin, potassium, folate, and iron.
It is rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants.
It may have anti-inflammatory effects because of its high antioxidant content.
It is a heart-healthy food, high in dietary fiber and carotenoids.

Recipes:

To prepare: Place on cookie sheet and bake in the oven for about an hour, or until you can pierce with a knife. Or you may remove the skin, cut into chunks and steam until tender.

Sources/Links:
Wholeliving.com
Fruitsandveggiesmatter.gov

More Recipes For Winter Squash

Red Kuri Squash and Apple Cider Soup

Red Kuri Squash and Celery Relish

Roasted zucchini

Lamb and Squash Tagine

Roasted Squash, Apple, and Onion Salad

Apple, Leek, Butternut Squash Gratin

Butternut Squash Muffins

Apple and Squash Soup