Veggie Fact of the Day

New Veggie #2

Acorn Squash is a winter squash belonging to the same family of squash as pumpkins and zucchini. It has a round acorn-like shape and the outer skin is typically dark green in color, with splashes of orange, although fully golden (or orange) and white varieties can be found in the fall. It is available year-round, although it is more readily available during the fall and winter months.

Once cut open, it has deep orange colored sweet flesh, which is somewhat drier than other squash. It makes for an excellent addition at Thanksgiving dinners across the United States.  Nutritionally. the acorn squash is similar to other orange winter squashes. From about a 1 cup serving, you get only 2 calories from fat but it is loaded with fiber (about 9 grams). It is a rich source of vitamins C, B1 (Thiamin), B6 (pryidoxine), B9 (folic acid), B5 (pantothenic acid) and also vitamin A which is mostly in the form of beta-carotene. Minerals include magnesium, manganese plus a substantial amount of potassium.