healthy nutritious meals Archives -

Yes, smuggle! I know lots of women trying to cook for families that say they will not eat squash; they hate it! However, squash is packed full of vitamins and minerals and potassium and protein, and the list goes on. Before giving up on squash for your family, consider it as an additive to some of your favorite dishes.

Besides being good for us, squash is a relative inexpensive produce, especially this time of the year. Anyone who has grown zucchini squash knows it multiplies rapidly. Most of us are given bags full in the summer and, let’s face it, there is only so much zucchini bread and muffins you can make.

If you are doing your best to serve healthy nutritious meals economically, and turn down free squash from your gardening friends, maybe these few simple tips will help you. To prepare squash for most of these tips, wash thoroughly and cut in small strips lengthwise. If it’s a larger squash, you will want to remove the seeds (evidence) before cutting into strips or slices.

Saute squash in butter or olive oil and add a can or two of Italian tomatoes for a great-tasting, nutritious side dish.
Chop squash into small pieces and add to soups and stews. This is a healthy alternative to starchy potatoes and pastas in your stews.
Add tiny chunks of squash in your green lettuce and spinach salads. Zucchini blends well with your other vegetables in a fresh salad bowl.
Saute as in #1 above and add to casseroles for richer flavor. Use your favorite seasonings liberally as squash will absorb flavor readily.
Use a whole zucchini and slice thin to serve on a relish tray with dips and crackers.

I sincerely hope these ideas will get your thinker going. What dishes do you prepare already that could profit from adding a cup or two of squash chunks or sauteed squash.

Have fun and experiment as we learn together how to make quick, nutritious, and economical foods for our families. Let me hear from you.

Hugs,