Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is so good on its own, that barely any seasoning is needed. This recipe is so simple and easy.
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash – peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Step 2: Toss butternut squash with olive oil and garlic in a large bowl. Season with salt and black pepper. Arrange coated squash on a baking sheet.
- Step 3: Roast in the preheated oven until squash is tender and lightly browned, 25 to 30 minutes.
What Butternut Squash Can Do for You
- It’s a great hydrator. One serving of butternut squash is roughly 87% water, which can help keep you hydrated.
- It’s good for your immunity . Like other orange-colored fruits and vegetables, butternut squash is full of beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. Your body converts them to vitamin A, which is important for your immune system.
- It’s excellent for your eyes. Butternut squash has lutein and zeaxanthin, often found in yellow fruits and vegetables as well as eggs. These protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays.
- It’s a good source of fiber. Foods high in dietary fiber can help keep your weight in balance and lower your cancer Research show colorectal cancer, in particular.
- It can help your blood pressure. Butternut squash is high in potassium, which can help keep your blood pressure in check.
- Its fiber helps with blood sugar. Butternut squash contains a type of fiber that’s not digestible. If you have diabetes, it can help keep your blood sugar from rising after eating.
How to Peel Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is known for its thick, tough skin. Peeling it can be quite an arm workout, but there are a few ways to make it easier:
- Cut a thin slice off the bottom and top so it will stand flat on a cutting board. Then use a knife or peeler to slice the skin off from the top to the bottom. Always cut away from your body.
- Pierce the squash a few times with a fork and put it in the microwave for a minute or two. This will soften the skin and make it easier to peel.
- Cut it in half and bake the squash with the skin on. It will easily peel away after it’s done cooking
