Seasonal Eating: Healthy Squash Recipes for Wellness and Sustainability
SQUASH SEASON!
As we strive to lead healthier lives and make more eco-conscious choices, one simple yet impactful habit is eating in-season produce. By focusing on what's naturally abundant during each season, we can reduce our carbon footprint by up to 10%. Seasonal foods like squash are delicious, nutrient-rich, and offer a great way to support both personal wellness and the planet. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of seasonal eating, share some easy, healthy squash recipes, and encourage you to shop locally at your nearest farmers' market..
Why Seasonal Eating Matters
Eating in-season produce isn't just a trend; it’s a sustainable practice that benefits the environment and our health. When we eat produce that’s in season, it often travels a shorter distance to get to our plates, reducing the carbon emissions associated with transportation. Plus, seasonal fruits and vegetables are typically fresher, more flavorful, and packed with nutrients since they are harvested at their peak ripeness.
Tip: For the freshest produce, visit your local farmers' market. Shopping locally not only supports small businesses and farmers but also ensures that you’re getting the best quality ingredients with minimal environmental impact.
Healthy Squash Recipes
Squash is a versatile vegetable that comes in many varieties, each offering unique flavors and textures. Whether you're looking for a quick side dish, a hearty casserole, or a show-stopping main course, these squash recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.
1. Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash Rounds
Looking for a quick, tasty side dish? These Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash Rounds are just the thing! With only a few ingredients, you'll have a crispy, cheesy treat in no time.
Ingredients:
2 medium yellow summer squash (find them fresh at your local farmers' market)
Garlic salt & freshly ground black pepper
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Slice the squash into ¼-inch rounds and arrange them on the sheet. Sprinkle with garlic salt and pepper.
Top each slice with a bit of Parmesan.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for the last minute or two.
Serve hot and enjoy this simple, savory delight!
2. Healthy Yellow Summer Squash Casserole
This Healthy Yellow Summer Squash Casserole is your new summer go-to! With tender squash, melty cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s perfect for any picnic or potluck.
Ingredients:
6 medium summer squash (about 3 pounds), sliced (pick up these beauties at your local farmers' market)
1 small ripe tomato, diced
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
4 ounces shredded Italian blend cheese (1 cup)
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Garlic salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, toss together the sliced squash, tomato, basil, garlic salt, and pepper.
Coat a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Spread half of the squash mixture in the dish, top with half of the Italian cheese, then add the remaining squash. Cover with foil and bake for 50-55 minutes until the squash is tender.
Increase oven temperature to 450°F. Remove the foil, sprinkle on the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes until the topping is golden and bubbly.
Serve it up hot and enjoy the taste of summer!
3. Baked Feta & Tomato Spaghetti Squash
Bring a wow factor to your table with this Baked Feta & Tomato Spaghetti Squash! Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta, this dish transforms spaghetti squash into a deliciously cheesy and saucy meal.
Ingredients:
1 spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise (get a farm-fresh one from your local market)
2 blocks of feta cheese
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes
3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Garlic salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place squash halves cut-side up on the sheet. Season with garlic salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper.
In each squash half, add a block of feta, ¾ cup of tomatoes, and 1 ½ tablespoons basil.
Bake for 50-55 minutes until the squash is tender and the tomatoes have burst.
Remove from the oven and use a fork to mix the squash strands, feta, and tomatoes together in the squash shells.
Cut each stuffed squash half in half again, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and serve.
Enjoy this flavorful and fun twist on a classic dish!
Eating seasonal produce like squash is a delicious and simple way to contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. These recipes not only celebrate the flavors of the season but also offer a nourishing and eco-friendly way to enjoy your meals. The next time you’re planning a meal, consider visiting your local farmers' market for the freshest, in-season produce. By supporting local farmers, you’re not just making a healthy choice for yourself, but also for the environment.
