Squash – more than marshmallows

Squash is a natural, healthy, year-round sweet vegetable.

Add color and nutrients to your winter meals by choosing squash. Squash is good for those with heart or blood pressure issues and great for preventing many health conditions. It is naturally fat free, cholesterol free and sodium free. Squash is also great for our body’s immune system because like other orange fruits and vegetables it is high in vitamin C.

Michigan State University Extension offers nutrition classes with a focus to increase fruit and vegetable consumption. One way of doing that is through food samples and cooking demonstrations.

The many shapes, sizes and colors of squash can lead to incredible variety, flavor and possibilities when it comes to cooking. You can use winter squash in sweet or savory dishes, for special holiday meals, as well as for everyday lunches or dinners. MyPlate recipes and the Cooking Matters phone app allow you to search by ingredient. Consider using one of the two smartphone apps and searching for:

  • Soup
  • Au Gratin
  • Zucchini bake
  • Casserole
  • Eggs
  • Stir fry                                     

You may also be interested in referring to Michigan Fresh, which is produced by MSU Extension. Michigan Fresh provides a free download on using, storing and preserving winter squash. Enjoy the aroma, variety and health benefits of winter squash this season and for years to come!

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