Summer Squash

Summer Squash: The benefits of growing this plentiful producer.

Almost every gardener has at some time or another, planted squash, AKA- crookneck, straight neck, and yellow squash. If you are among the many, then you know that these are some of the most prolific producers in our garden. These golden favorites offer many health benefits. Many of which are quite amazing.

The obvious plus is the fact that it is low in carbohydrates. In today's diet plans this is an important trait. It is also gluten-free, full of fiber, low calorie, and an excellent source of beta carotene. This garden powerhouse also packs folate, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese. We must not forget the vitamins found in the yellow wonder, with A, B6, and C packed inside you can't go wrong with this gem on your plate.
You can add it to your salad in a raw state or you can fully cook it to enjoy its smooth texture and somewhat buttery taste.

To add even more value to this treasure trove of nutritional finds you can also eat the leaves and blossoms of the squash plants. You may harvest the young leaves and blossoms, chop and fry them as you do cabbage or you can cook them as you do other garden greens. if you use the larger more mature leaves the taste may be bitter. Keep in mind that the blossom is what produces the actual squash so if you harvest these for consumption you may not see any squash.

If you like the idea of its health benefits, but can't quite get on board with its texture or taste, there are a plethora of ideas that will please even the pickiest pallet. A few suggestions would be to dice it up and saute' it with onions and mushrooms, or if you are looking to boost your children's nutrition intake you can dice it small and add it to your corn. Trust me, they won't even know it's there. You may try it pickled or chopped up with your cabbage in coleslaw to add some extra texture. No matter how you choose to enjoy this summer favorite, you can't go wrong.