If you're looking for a tasty and nutritious addition to your meal, look no further than medium cooked summer squash with added fat. With only 130 calories per serving, this versatile vegetable is a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Not only is summer squash low in calories, it's also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. A medium-sized summer squash contains about 2 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, and is a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value, health benefits, and different ways to enjoy summer squash with added fat.

Nutritional Value of Medium Cooked Summer Squash

Summer squash is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is low in calories and high in essential vitamins and minerals. A medium-sized squash that is cooked with added fat provides roughly 130 calories, 3 grams of protein, and 3 grams of fiber. Summer squash is particularly rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. It's also a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. To maximize the nutritional value of summer squash, it's important to cook it properly and pair it with other healthy ingredients.

How to Cook Medium Summer Squash with Added Fat

Summer squash can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, roasting, sautéing, and stir-frying. When cooking with added fat, try to use healthy fats like olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil. To sauté summer squash, heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced squash and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned. To grill summer squash, slice it into rounds, brush with oil, and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred. Summer squash is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many different recipes, from salads to soups to casseroles.

Health Benefits of Summer Squash

Eating summer squash can have a number of health benefits. Some research suggests that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds found in squash may help to protect against cancer and heart disease. Additionally, summer squash is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help to support healthy digestion and weight loss. Eating a diet rich in vegetables like summer squash may also help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Delicious Summer Squash Recipes with Added Fat

There are many delicious ways to enjoy summer squash with added fat. Try adding sautéed summer squash to pasta dishes, or tossing grilled squash with a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light and refreshing salad. You can also make a simple summer squash skillet by sautéing squash with onions, garlic, and a little butter or olive oil. Or, for a heartier meal, try stuffing summer squash with ground turkey or beef and baking until tender. The possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking with summer squash, so don't be afraid to get creative!

Summer Squash Varieties to Try

There are many different varieties of summer squash to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some popular types of summer squash include zucchini, crookneck squash, pattypan squash, and yellow squash. When selecting summer squash, look for squash that is firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. Store squash in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

How to Store Cooked Summer Squash

Leftover cooked summer squash should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a pan with a little oil or butter. If you have a lot of leftover summer squash, try freezing it for later use. To freeze cooked squash, simply place it in a freezer-safe container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Seasonal Availability of Summer Squash

Summer squash is in season from late spring through early fall. During this time, you'll find a wide variety of fresh summer squash at your local farmers market or grocery store. If you're looking for a way to preserve the flavor of summer squash all year round, try canning or pickling it. Both methods are easy to do and will allow you to enjoy your summer squash long after the season has ended.

Summer Squash Pairings with Other Ingredients

Summer squash pairs well with a variety of different ingredients, including herbs like basil and rosemary, tangy cheeses like feta and goat cheese, and flavorful meats like chicken and beef. Try adding sautéed summer squash to omelets or frittatas, or tossing grilled squash with roasted red peppers and goat cheese for a delicious and easy side dish. Get creative with your pairings and experiment with different flavor combinations to find the perfect match for your summer squash.

Summer Squash as a Low-Carb Alternative to Pasta

If you're looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, try using summer squash instead. Simply use a vegetable peeler or spiralizer to create noodles from the squash, then sauté or steam until tender. Top your squash noodles with your favorite sauce and enjoy a low-carb, high-fiber meal that is both delicious and nutritious.

Grilling Summer Squash for Added Flavor

Grilling summer squash can give it a delicious smoky flavor and charred texture. To grill summer squash, cut it into rounds or slices, brush with oil, and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred. You can also grill summer squash on skewers with other vegetables like bell peppers and onions for a colorful and flavorful summer dish.