Spicy baked squash

Winter squashes — like acorn, butternut and spaghetti squash — are budget-friendly, versatile and nutrient-rich. Their tough outer skins make them a bit more challenging to prep, but also gives them a long shelf life. And once prepared they offer creamy textures, vibrant colors and great nutrition benefits. They're low in calories, high in fiber and rich in Vitamin A in the form of beta carotene (a powerful anti-oxidant).

As we round out the fall season and transition into winter, think of winter squashes as a weekly menu item. Instead of rice or pasta, have squash to round out your plate. Rich in complex carbohydrates, this vegetable fills you up like starch but it's a veggie! Enjoy the amazing flavors and health benefits of winter squash in this easy and mouth-watering recipe.

Spicy baked squash

Ingredients:

• Vegetable cooking spray
• 1 acorn squash
• 1 dash salt
• 2 tablespoons margarine
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger

Instructions:

• Wash hands with soap and water.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F.
• Coat the baking sheet with vegetable cooking spray.
• Wash the squash. Cut it in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds. Cut the squash into 1/2 inch slices.
• Place the squash on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt.
• Melt the margarine on low heat in a small saucepan.
• Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger to the saucepan.
• Spread the margarine mix on the squash.
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until tender. Makes 4 servings.

Recipe adapted from myplate.gov.

Next steps:

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