Learn more about the types of winter squash and their health benefits.
Plus, get tasty ideas for how to enjoy winter squash.
Many also have tough skin that needs to be removed before eatingalthoughsome, like delicata, have edible skin.
While specific amounts of nutrients and antioxidants vary, all varieties of winter squash provide similar nutrient benefits.
Winter squash delivers a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins A and C, antioxidants, fiber and potassium.
Butternut holds the honor of being one of the types of squash richest in vitamin A.
It’s also pairs perfectly with apples and nuts, as in ourApple & Pean Stuffed Butternut Squash.
Schlicter adds that butternut squash is high in vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium and magnesium.
One cup of butternut squash also offers 3 grams offiber to benefit gut health.
It’s also been shown to be antimicrobial, which means it supports immune health.
Buttercup squash also offers a variety of carotenoid antioxidants.
Try buttercup squash in ourOven-Roasted Squash with Garlic & Parsley.
Honeynut Squash
This variety looks like a baby version of butternut squash.
Enjoy it alongside your favorite proteinincluding fish, chicken, beef or pork.
Honeynut squash is also an excellent choice for anaturally sweet and creamy squash soup.
Farrell adds that eating the squash’s fiber-rich skin can promote optimal digestive function.
Spice it up by trying ourMexican Stuffed Acorn SquashorMoroccan Chickpea-Stuffed Acorn Squash.
This unique characteristic helped it gain popularity in kitchens and on restaurant menus.
Or try our Spaghetti Squash Lo Mein orSpinach & Artichoke Spaghetti Squash Nests.
However, its smaller size means it cooks quickly.
Brush on some maple syrup and dust with some cinnamon before roasting for a sweet seasonal side dish.
Use sweet dumpling squash in place of butternut squash in ourRoasted Squash & Lentil Kale Salad.
It is a rich source of vitamin A, per theUSDA.
Swap the butternut for kabocha in ourRoasted Butternut Squash SaladorMassaged Kale Salad with Roasted Squash & Chickpeas.
If you’re intimidated about eating squash skin, delicata squash is the variety to start with.
Farrell adds that delicata is also high in vitamins A and C which support eye and immune health.
Plus, by eating the skin, you add more fiber.
OurQuinoa-Stuffed Delicata Squashis a great place to start.
Try our Tex-Mex-inspired Stuffed Delicata Squash.
Delicata also makes a beautiful side dish in ourHoney-Glazed Roasted Delicata Squashor ourDelicata Squash Soup.
Pumpkin
We started by mentioning pumpkin and we’ll end on that note, too.
According to theUSDA, canned pumpkin is rich in fiber, antioxidants and vitamin A.
You canblend pumpkin into smoothiesand use it in overnight orbaked oatmeal.
Or go the savory route and make ourPumpkin Risotto with Goat CheeseorPumpkin & Black Bean Soup.
For dessert, break out of the pumpkin pie mold and try ourPumpkin TrifleorPumpkin Spice Latte Cookies.
Frozen and canned squash also save time and are easy to use.
Check the label and choose the brand with the least amount of added sodium and no added sugar.
If you use fresh squash, save the seeds androast them.
