Acorn Squash: Nutrition, Benefits, and How to Cook It

What is acorn squash?

Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that belongs to the Cucurbitaceaeor gourd family, which also includes pumpkin,butternut squash, and zucchini.

It has an acorn-like shape with ridged skin that can vary in color from dark green to white. However, the most commonly grown varieties are dark green and often have a patch of bright orange towards the top.

Acorn squash have sweet, yellow-orange flesh that has a slightly nutty flavor. They’re grown in many countries throughout the world but especially popular in North America.

Though they’re botanically classified as a fruit, they’re considered a starchy vegetable and can be used similarly to other high-carb vegetables, such as potatoes, butternut squash, and sweet potatoes.

They’re also favored by backyard farmers, as they’re easy to grow and can be kept for up to a month when properly cured and stored, providing a nutritious produce source during times when other fresh vegetables are scarce.

Acorn squash nutrition

Acorn squash are highly nutritious, providing a quality source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

One cup (205 grams) of cooked acorn squash offers:

Calories: 115

Carbs: 30 grams

Protein: 2 grams

Fiber: 9 grams

Provitamin A: 18% of the Daily Value (DV)

Vitamin C: 37% of the DV

Thiamine (vitamin B1): 23% of the DV

Pyridoxine (vitamin B6): 20% of the DV

Folate (vitamin B9): 10% of the DV

Iron: 11% of the DV

Magnesium: 22% of the DV

Potassium: 26% of the DV

Manganese: 25% of the DV

Acorn squash is a sweet winter squash that’s low in calories yet packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

Health benefits of acorn squash 

Due to its nutritional profile, acorn squash provides some impressive health benefits.

Adding acorn squash to your diet may improve your health in many ways and decrease your risk of developing chronic conditions, including heart and neurodegenerative diseases.

How to add acorn squash to your diet 

Acorn squash is highly versatile and can be used in place of other starchy vegetables in both sweet and savory recipes.

Conclusion:

Acorn squash is rich in nutrients, such as fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

It also packs many beneficial plant compounds, including carotenoid antioxidants.

As a result, acorn squash may promote overall health and protect against certain chronic conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

What’s more, this brightly colored winter squash is a versatile ingredient that adds interest and flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/acorn-squash