Butternut Squash is the new super food. Squash is the new craze when it comes to losing weight because of its health benefits.
“There are many things that you can do with squash,” a talented dining services chef said. “Squash is something that is over-looked.”
Mark Nikolson was the star of the Make-It Monday cooking demo at the action bar in Cavs Corner to celebrate the health benefits of squash. Nikolson taught students and faculty how to make butternut squash soup on Monday, Oct. 21 from noon to 12:30 p.m.
The soup contained just a few simple ingredients: oil, onions, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper and parsley.
Nikolson then went on to show them how to prepare the soup, and then cook the soup while explaining the health benefits throughout the demo.
Butternut squash has many health benefits that are heart-friendly. Squash is low in fat, and has a good amount of fiber in it.
Squash also has high amounts of potassium, which is good for bone health, and vitamin B6 that is essential for the nervous and immune systems. Squash is also rich in folate. Folate helps support heart health and guards the brain and spinal cord related birth defects.
As if that wasn’t enough, squash also has cancer-fighting antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamin C. Squash also has an anti-inflammatory characteristic because it is high in antioxidants. This means squash can also lower the risk of having inflammation disorders like arthritis and asthma.
Nikolson already had soup prepared for his guests, so he served them. Then showed them step by step in a pot how to make it. Nikolson sautéed onions until they turned translucent in color. He then added cumin and coriander into the pot with the onions.
After the onions and spices cooked down, he then pureed the squash and added it to the pot, and mixed all of the ingredients together. Nikolson then added salt and pepper to taste then let it simmer.
The people surrounding the action bar were excited to try it and enjoyed the soup.
“I just tried the soup, and it is delicious,” Jess Huda said.
