Serving Up Summer Squash (Daily Dish)

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-01-2004
Serving Up Summer Squash (Daily Dish)
2
Fri, 07-16-2004 - 7:05am
Serving Up Summer Squash


This Daily Dish is part of a series on seasonal produce.

Squash is one of those vegetables that is not used enough in summer cuisine. Not only is it immensely nutritious, it's also versatile, cheap, and at its peak during the summer months. Here's how to buy, store, and prepare summer squash.

Buying: The potential health benefits of summer squash are numerous. They are rich sources of magnesium, vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamin A, fiber, potassium, vitamin B6, niacin, folate, copper, and riboflavin. In the market, you'll find a variety of summer squash, including zucchini, sunburst, crookneck, pattypan, and yellow squash. When purchasing, select squash that are firm and heavy for their size, with bright and glossy skin. Avoid those with nicks, bruises, or soft spots.

Storing: You can store squash tightly wrapped or in plastic bags in the refrigerator for up to one week. Those with thicker skin can be kept up to two weeks.

Eating: The thin, edible skin of summer squash allow them to cook more quickly than winter squash. They can be prepared by steaming, baking, or sautéing. You can cut them in half, remove the seeds, and bake with a little olive oil and seasonings, or you can dice and add to soups, salads, and stews. Squash will add texture and flavor to any meal.

                         


     

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iVillage Member
Registered: 02-09-2004
Fri, 07-16-2004 - 7:36am
Hi Cathy:

I read your post about summer squash. I agree. In fact, I had it for my dinner last night.

I used the yellow squash. I selected little ones, cut it into small pieces and pan "fried" in no stick pan with 1 onion and some seasoning until slightly browned and then added a small can of tomatoes, cooked until just tender. Yum. I really enjoyed it and have some left for tonight. Patty pan could also be used.

Betty

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-01-2004
Fri, 07-16-2004 - 8:07am
Sounds yummy!
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