Amazing Benefits of Butternut Squash & A Delicious Recipe Too!

For all of you Amazing Over 40 women out there, here’s a vegetable packed with vitamins and nutrients that our bodies need at this age.  Butternut squash is chock full of beta-carotene, Vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin – all of these benefit our eyes/vision.  The B-vitamins, B2, B6, and B9 are important for cell renewal and energy, as well as stabilizing mood (PMS anyone?) and hormonal balance.  Plus, the Vitamin C, Magnesium, Manganese, Calcium, and Potassium contained in this fantastic veggie boosts the immune system (much needed right now!) and helps with hair, nails, and bone as well.

Some studies have shown that the fiber in butternut squash may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer as well as help with bone loss during menopause.

Who knew squash could have so many benefits?!

Here’s one of my favorite recipes – simple and oh SO TASTY!

Photo courtesy of Delish.com.

Ingredients:

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, pressed
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2-3 cups Butternut noodles (use a spiralizer)
• Chopped parsley
• Shaved parmesan cheese
• Salt & Pepper for taste

Cut the neck of the butternut squash from the bulbous (bottom and bigger) end of the squash.

Using a vegetable peeler, peel squash – butternut squash has quite a thick peel so make sure you peel until you see an orange layer.  Place into a spiralizer – make sure that the squash is securely set because butternut squash is denser and firmer than zucchini or spaghetti squash and you don’t want the squash to slip out.

In a saucepan, combine the chopped onion, garlic, and olive oil.  Cook until onions are soft and translucent and the garlic is aromatic.

Add Butternut Squash noodles and sauté for 7- 10 minutes.

Add chopped fresh parsley and parmesan cheese and VOILA – you have an incredible side dish or entrée if you’d like to add shrimp or chicken.