With Halloween plans and autumn festivities in full swing, as usual quite a bit of focus is always placed on the omnipresent pumpkin. And justifiably so- as pumpkins are delicious and absolutely exploding with good- for- you nutrients. But let’s turn the spotlight for a minute to another member of the winter squash family which doesn’t seem to ever grab the attention it is due this time of year- the butternut squash.
There are bunches of culinary delights that can be derived from a single butternut! Butternuts “feel right at home” in casseroles such as my Butternut Squash ‘n Spinach Lasagna and Crunchy Butternut ‘n Apple Bake. Butternut Squash ‘n Apple Bisque is most certain to please anytime you are craving a steamy bowl of pure “comfort.”
Check out two of my absolute favorite autumn salad recipes: Roasted Pear and Butternut Squash Salad and Butternut Squash Ribbon Salad which are as healthy as they are festive. Both would look beautiful on your Thanksgiving table. Try including butternuts in a savory mélange of roasted veggies or just toss with a bit of pure maple syrup and cinnamon for a healthy dish that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Roasted Apples, Butternuts ‘n Onions, Butternut Squash Pie and yes, even a Butternut ‘n Apple Smoothie are further proof of my never-ending love affair with this yummy, versatile and nutritious winter squash!
Recipe Highlights
More about Butternuts…
Butternuts are generally widely available from September through the end of the year at local farmers’ markets natural food stores, and neighborhood grocery stores. When choosing a butternut, look for a “long neck” as these generally contain more edible flesh with smaller cavities and less seeds.
These pear-shaped creamy golden globes with vibrant orange or yellow flesh are over the top with Vitamin A, a good source of Vitamin C and are a respectable source of calcium, magnesium and manganese. Not too shabby in the iron and fiber departments either! And the news just keeps getting better as one cup of cooked squash weighs in at a mere 82 calories!
Try adding butternut squash to chili, curries, risottos, and stews or even as a yummy topping for pizza. Butternuts are also wonderful in breads, muffins, casseroles, pancakes, ravioli, quiches and so much more. Or simply mash cooked butternuts with an aromatic sweet-savory spice blend like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, coriander, cardamom and cayenne. And don’t forget the roasted seeds which make terrific snacks!
Short on prep time? No worries. Today you can often find packages of cut-up butternut squash in supermarkets and specialty grocers like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods.
The uses for butternut squash are virtually endless! If you are a newbie, now is prime-time for finding these delectable autumn treasures and experimenting with a variety of ways to prepare and enjoy.
Hungry for More?
I invite you to visit my Recipe Collections where lots of goodies such as Pack ‘n Go Lunch Favorites, Back to School Food Fun, Dinners in a Flash, Freezer-Friendly Meals, Favorite Crockpot Dishes, and MORE are awaiting your discovery!
Can You Become a Meal Planning Maven Success Story?
YES! Contact me for more information about my services. I would love to share my healthy eating secrets you can use, today, tomorrow and always. My specialties include creating customized meal planners and one- on- one food coaching using tried ‘n true methods. Whether your goal is to feed your family healthier meals, build a collection of quick ‘n easy recipes, “go gluten-free,” or perhaps knock off that pesky “pudge” that mysteriously found its way to your middle …I’d LOVE to help!
MPM’s Success Stories
“Get Social” with MPM!
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Ceeya Next Time!
Linda Shapiro, Meal Planning Maven
29 Responses