Embrace November with Squash Season: A Plant-Based Delight

 Embrace November with Squash Season: A Plant-Based Delight

As November rolls in, the air becomes crisp, leaves transform into vibrant hues, and our kitchens become the heart of warmth and comfort. One of the stars of this cozy season is squash. This versatile and nutrient-rich vegetable offers endless possibilities for creating delicious and comforting plant-based recipes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, squash provides a perfect ingredient to celebrate the flavors of fall.

The Allure of Squash

Squash comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, each offering unique flavors and textures. From the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash to the rich, creamy texture of acorn squash, there is a type of squash to suit every palate. Other popular varieties include delicata, spaghetti, and kabocha squash. These nutrient-dense vegetables are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Cooking with Squash

One of the best things about squash is its versatility. It can be roasted, steamed, sautéed, or pureed to create a myriad of dishes. Here are a few plant-based recipes to inspire your November cooking:

1. Creole Roasted Butternut Squash Soup:

A twist on a classic fall favorite, roasted butternut squash soup is both comforting and easy to make. Simply roast cubed butternut squash with onions, garlic, and a touch of olive oil until caramelized. Blend the roasted vegetables with vegetable broth, creole seasonings, and finish with a swirl of coconut milk for a creamy, velvety texture. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch. Full recipe click here.

2. Spaghetti Squash Marinara with Herb Butter Sauce:

For a light and healthy meal, try spaghetti squash primavera. Roast the spaghetti squash until tender, then use a fork to scrape out the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Make a pesto sauce for the squash noodles and top with your favorite basil marinara sauce. Top with fresh herbs, vegan cheese shreds and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Full recipe click here.

3. Za'atar Acorn Squash with Quinoa:

Stuffed acorn squash is a show-stopping dish perfect for a cozy dinner or holiday gathering. Halve and roast acorn squash until tender. Meanwhile, prepare a filling of quinoa, roasted vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, and diced tomatoes, seasoned with Za'atar seasoning. Spoon the filling into the roasted squash halves and bake. Full recipe will be released on the blog soon.

The Health Benefits of Squash
Incorporating squash into your diet offers numerous health benefits. The high fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. The vibrant orange and yellow hues of squash are indicative of their high beta-carotene content, which supports healthy skin and vision. Additionally, the antioxidants in squash help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system—perfect for warding off seasonal colds.

Celebrating Squash Season

November is the perfect time to celebrate the bounty of squash season. Visit your local farmers' market to explore the variety of squash available and support local growers. Experiment with new recipes and cooking techniques to discover the many ways squash can enhance your plant-based meals. Squash not only brings a burst of flavor to your dishes but also adds warmth and comfort to your kitchen during the chilly fall months.

We will post our squash recipes for you to follow along or get some creative inspiration!

Let's Geaux!!! Veg Out & Eat More Plants
Dr. Omilade
The Veg Out Daily Team