Did you know that 1 Cup Diced Cooked Summer Squash (from Frozen, Fat Added in Cooking) contains 77 calories? Squash is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you're looking for a low-carb side dish or a healthy addition to your favorite recipe, summer squash is an excellent choice.
In addition to being low in calories, summer squash is also high in antioxidants and contains important vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. It's also a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of diced cooked summer squash, ways to prepare it, storage tips, and some healthy recipes that feature this versatile veggie.
Calories in 1 Cup Diced Cooked Summer Squash
As mentioned earlier, 1 Cup Diced Cooked Summer Squash (from Frozen, Fat Added in Cooking) contains 77 calories. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing flavor.
Carbohydrates in Diced Cooked Summer Squash
One cup of diced cooked summer squash contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates, making it a good choice for anyone following a low-carb diet. However, unlike other low-carb vegetables, summer squash is also a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Protein in Diced Cooked Summer Squash
While summer squash is not a significant source of protein, one cup of diced cooked summer squash does contain approximately 1 gram of protein. This may not sound like much, but every little bit helps when it comes to meeting your daily protein needs.
Fiber in Diced Cooked Summer Squash
As mentioned earlier, one cup of diced cooked summer squash contains approximately 2 grams of fiber. Fiber is an important nutrient that can help regulate digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Fat in Diced Cooked Summer Squash
While summer squash is naturally low in fat, the fat content can increase if you cook it with added oil or butter. One cup of diced cooked summer squash (from frozen, fat added in cooking) contains approximately 5 grams of fat, most of which is unsaturated.
Vitamins and Minerals in Diced Cooked Summer Squash
Summer squash is a great source of important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and folate. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and helps prevent cellular damage. Potassium is important for regulating blood pressure and maintaining healthy heart function. Magnesium is important for muscle and nerve function, and folate is important for DNA synthesis and cell growth.
Ways to Prepare Diced Cooked Summer Squash
Summer squash can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, roasting, sautéing, and steaming. It can also be used in soups, stews, and casseroles. One simple and delicious way to prepare diced cooked summer squash is to sauté it with onions, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Healthy Recipes with Diced Cooked Summer Squash
Here are some healthy recipes that feature diced cooked summer squash:
- Summer squash and tomato pasta
- Grilled summer squash skewers
- Roasted summer squash with garlic and lemon
- Summer squash and corn chowder
- Summer squash and feta salad
Storage Tips for Frozen Summer Squash
Frozen summer squash can be stored in the freezer for up to 8 months. To prevent freezer burn, make sure to use sturdy freezer bags or containers. When you're ready to use the squash, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or cook it directly from frozen.
Health Benefits of Diced Cooked Summer Squash
Some potential health benefits of diced cooked summer squash include:
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- Improved digestion
- Lowered inflammation
- Decreased risk of certain types of cancer
- Improved eye health
Summer squash is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many ways.
5 FAQs About Diced Cooked Summer Squash
1. What are the nutritional benefits of summer squash?
Summer squash is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.
2. Can you use fresh summer squash instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh summer squash can be diced and cooked in the same way as frozen squash. However, the calorie count may differ slightly.
3. How should you cook summer squash?
Summer squash can be cooked in a variety of ways, including sautéing, grilling, roasting, and baking. It can also be added to soups, stews, and casseroles.
4. How long does cooked summer squash last in the fridge?
Cooked summer squash can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
5. What are some recipe ideas for using diced cooked summer squash?
Diced cooked summer squash can be used in a variety of recipes, such as vegetable stir-fries, pasta dishes, and frittatas. It can also be seasoned with herbs and spices to create a tasty side dish.