Looking for a low calorie summer squash dish? Look no further than 1 cup slices of crookneck and straightneck summer squash! This particular recipe is drained, solid, without salt, cooked, and boiled, containing only 28 calories.
Not only is this dish low in calories, it is also high in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. It is a great source of dietary fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer periods of time.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for incorporating summer squash into your diet.
Low Calorie
As mentioned earlier, 1 cup slices of crookneck and straightneck summer squash contain only 28 calories. This makes it an ideal ingredient for anyone looking to maintain a calorie-controlled diet. You can add it to salads, soups, omelettes, or simply enjoy it as a side dish. It is an excellent substitute for other carb-rich ingredients, such as potatoes or pasta. With its low calorie content, summer squash is perfect for anyone trying to lose weight.
High in Vitamins and Minerals
Summer squash is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. One cup of sliced summer squash provides 25% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C and 16% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. It is also a good source of potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are important for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Incorporating summer squash into your diet can help keep your body healthy and nourished.
Great for Weight Loss
Summer squash is a great addition to any weight loss plan. Its low calorie content, high nutrient density, and fiber content make it an ideal food for anyone looking to shed a few pounds. When consumed as part of a calorie-controlled diet, summer squash can help you feel full and satisfied. This can prevent overeating and snacking on unhealthy foods. Swap out carb-heavy ingredients for summer squash to help you reach your weight loss goals.
Versatile Ingredient for Various Dishes
One of the great things about summer squash is its versatility. It can be used in a wide range of dishes, from salads and soups to stir-frys and casseroles. Try using summer squash in place of pasta in your favourite pasta dishes. Alternatively, you can grill or roast it with other vegetables for a tasty and healthy side dish. Get creative with summer squash and experiment with different recipes to find your favourite.
Easy to Prepare and Cook
Summer squash is easy to prepare and cook. All you need to do is wash it, slice it, and you're good to go. You can boil, steam, grill, fry, or roast summer squash depending on your preference. It is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked using a variety of methods. With its simplicity and versatility, summer squash is a great ingredient for anyone looking to improve their cooking skills.
Fresh and Tasty Addition to Salads
Summer squash adds a fresh and flavourful element to any salad. Its tender texture and mild flavour make it a great addition to green salads, pasta salads, and grain salads. Try combining sliced summer squash with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese for a refreshing and healthy salad. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. With its bright and vibrant colours and subtle taste, summer squash is sure to elevate any salad.
Rich in Fiber
Fiber is an important nutrient for maintaining a healthy digestive system. It helps regulate bowel movements and prevents constipation. Summer squash is a good source of dietary fiber. One cup of sliced summer squash provides 2.5 grams of fiber, which is about 10% of the recommended daily intake. Incorporating summer squash into your diet can help you meet your daily fiber requirements and keep your digestive system functioning properly.
Helps Boost Immune System
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system. It helps protect the body from harmful pathogens and free radicals. Summer squash is a great source of vitamin C. One cup of sliced summer squash provides 25% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. Incorporating summer squash into your diet can help keep your immune system strong and healthy.
Can Lower Risk of Diabetes
Summer squash is a great food option for people with diabetes. It has a low glycemic index and is low in carbohydrates and calories. The fiber found in summer squash can also help regulate blood sugar levels. This can help prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Incorporating summer squash into your diet can have positive benefits for those with or at risk for diabetes.
Good for Heart Health
Summer squash is a heart-healthy food option. It is low in sodium and saturated fat, and is a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure. The fiber found in summer squash can also help lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Incorporating summer squash into your diet can help keep your heart healthy and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Summer squash is a versatile and healthy ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Whether you're looking to lose weight, boost your immune system, or just add some fresh flavour to your meals, summer squash is a must-try ingredient.
5 FAQ About Cooked Summer Squash
1. How many calories are in one cup of cooked summer squash?
There are 28 calories in one cup of drained, solid, boiled crookneck and straightneck summer squash without salt.
2. What are the health benefits of summer squash?
Summer squash is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in antioxidants such as vitamin C and beta-carotene. It also contains potassium, magnesium, and fiber which can promote heart health and aid in digestion.
3. How can you cook summer squash?
Summer squash can be cooked in a variety of ways such as sautéing, grilling, roasting, or boiling. It can be seasoned with herbs and spices or paired with other vegetables or proteins for a delicious and healthy meal.
4. How should you store summer squash?
Summer squash should be stored in a cool, dry place such as the refrigerator crisper drawer or a storage container with air holes. It is best to use summer squash within a week of purchase.
5. Are there any potential downsides to eating summer squash?
While summer squash is generally considered safe to eat, some people may experience digestive issues such as bloating or gas due to its high fiber content. It is also important to wash summer squash thoroughly and cook it properly to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.