This time of year it is hard to miss all of the gorgeous gourds popping up at the supermarket. So now that you’re done carving up your Halloween pumpkin why not try substituting pumpkin or squash for potatoes in your favorites recipes. Squash is a colourful and healthy alternate to potatoes. It is an excellent source of beta-carotene and one cup butternut squash contains 145% of the daily recommendation for vitamin A. Pumpkin contains lutein and zeaxanthin, pigments related to a lower risk of cataracts in women says a 2008 study and contain only 49 calories per mashed cup. One cup of acorn squash contains 28% of the daily recommendation for Magnesium an important mineral for muscle relaxation and proper muscle contraction. Many gourds are good sources of Potassium and can therefore help in the maintenance of healthy blood pressure. Squash is a great way to get the most of your starch choices as one cup contains only 82 calories and is therefore only one starch choice!
Many gourds are good sources of Potassium and can therefore help in the maintenance of healthy blood pressure.
Squash or pumpkin can be used to thicken soups or stews or use them as a gluten free thickener in your favourite hamburger or meatball recipe!
They can also be used as a serving vessel for your favorite soups by using the bottom of a butternut or a half of an acorn squash as a bowl.
