Butternut squash is a winter vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes, such as butternut squash spaghetti.
Image Credit: Diana Taliun/iStock/GettyImages Butternut squash is a winter vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes, such as butternut squash spaghetti. Like other squashes, such as spaghetti squash, butternut squash is versatile and easy to cook.
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Though it can be roasted, pan fried and steamed, you can also microwave butternut squash for a quick and easy meal. To steam squash in the microwave, you will need a few basic ingredients and access to a microwave. You can cut your butternut squash into cubes or spaghetti shape with the help of a vegetable spiralizer or peeler.
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Butternut Squash Benefits
There are many reasons why you should consume more butternut squash. Aside from being delicious, butternut squash is high in many nutrients and is associated with some health benefits.
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According to the USDA, 1 cup of cooked butternut squash contains 82 calories, 0.2 grams of fat, 21.5 grams of carbohydrates and 1.8 grams of protein. It is also a significant source of fiber, potassium, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. Per the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, squash is also a good source of folate, iron and calcium.
For people following a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH diet, butternut squash is free of dietary cholesterol and saturated fat.
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One of the benefits of butternut squash is that it is a potent source of potassium. One serving contains 12 percent of your daily needs. According to the National Institutes of Health, many people in the U.S. do not consume the recommended amount of potassium. Though the average American diet is low in potassium, consuming butternut squash is one way to meet your daily potassium requirement.
Read more: What Does Butternut Squash Go With?
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Butternut Squash Recipes
When you are short on time but want a healthy meal, it is simple to microwave spaghetti squash or butternut squash alike. This is a naturally oil-free recipe, making it suitable for people following a low-fat diet. You can also steam squash in the microwave if you follow a calorie-restricted diet. To microwave butternut squash or spaghetti squash, you will need the following ingredients and supplies:
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Fresh or frozen butternut squash Herbs and spices (optional) Water Baking dish or bowl Plastic wrap High-power microwave
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As you prepare to steam squash in the microwave, you will also need a sharp knife to cut through the squash. If you choose to microwave spaghetti squash or butternut squash, you will also need a tool to yield a noodle shape. You can use a vegetable spiralizer, peeler or fork to achieve this texture.
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Once the butternut squash is thoroughly cooked, you can eat it plain or add it to a recipe that calls for cooked squash. You can also pair spaghetti squash with salad, other vegetables or a protein source to make a balanced meal. Other potential butternut squash recipes include toast, soup, pasta and more.
Read more: How to Boil Butternut Squash
How to Microwave Butternut Squash
Once you have your ingredients prepared, you are ready to microwave spaghetti squash or diced butternut squash.
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Here is how to steam squash in the microwave:
Cut butternut squash into halves and remove the seeds. Scoop the flesh from the skin and cut into desired shape, such as cubes or noodles.
Transfer squash to a microwave-safe baking dish or bowl.
Advertisement 3. Add a splash of water.
Optional: Add herbs, spices, salt and pepper to taste.
Microwave on high for approximately 10 minutes or until squash is fork-tender. Once cooked, carefully remove the hot baking dish from the microwave. Let it cool before serving. If you microwave butternut squash regularly, you may increase your intake of many vitamins and minerals. There are many benefits of butternut squash, so steam squash in the microwave as a quick and easy way to reap those benefits.
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references
MyFoodData: “Nutrition Facts for Cooked Butternut Squash” National Institutes of Health: “Potassium Fact Sheet for Consumers” Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: “Peeling Squash”references
MyFoodData: “Nutrition Facts for Cooked Butternut Squash” National Institutes of Health: “Potassium Fact Sheet for Consumers” Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: “Peeling Squash”Butternut squash is a winter vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes, such as butternut squash spaghetti. Image Credit: Diana Taliun/iStock/GettyImages
Image Credit: Diana Taliun/iStock/GettyImages
MyFoodData: “Nutrition Facts for Cooked Butternut Squash”
National Institutes of Health: “Potassium Fact Sheet for Consumers”
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: “Peeling Squash”
