All posts tagged Squash

zucchini flowers medicinal properties

Zucchini Flowers Medicinal Properties: 5 Reasons To Eat Squash

May 30, 2019

Squash, also known as zucchini and courgette, is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family that originated from Central America. The plant does well in warm, moist places with fertile soil. It has been domesticated in many regions of the world due to its edible leaves, flowers, and fruits. In addition, zucchini flowers medicinal properties have endeared it to various civilizations throughout the years as the blossoms are used to treat aches, colds and many other health conditions.

[Note: The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Zucchini blossoms are packed with a wide variety of beneficial compounds including vitamins and minerals. They also contain small amounts of calcium, iron, zinc, copper, folate, and phosphorus.

Boosting your immunity and slowing down aging
Squash is rich in antioxidants; these are beneficial compounds that protect the body against the damaging effects of free radicals.
In addition, carotenoids such as zeaxanthin and lutein are especially great for protecting and improving eye health by fighting free radicals. These reduce the risk of developing eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Improves digestion
Zucchini helps in improving digestion due to its high water content and fiber. It also contains electrolytes and other nutrients that help in reducing incidences of constipation and other digestive problems. Consuming zucchini regularly is also known to assist in preventing ulcers and colon cancer.

Heart-friendly
Squash is low in sodium and fat content, but high in potassium, manganese, and vitamin C. These properties make it ideal for maintaining well-functioning blood circulation system. High potassium and low sodium help in maintaining healthy blood pressure while polysaccharides in squash reduces cholesterol levels. This combination works effectively for maintaining a healthy circulatory system, which is critical for a functional heart and a healthy blood pressure.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, squash was indicated as one of the vegetables that are ideal for lowering LDL or bad cholesterol. Vitamin C and beta-carotene are two components that are great for preventing oxidation of cholesterol which accumulates in blood vessel walls resulting in many cardiovascular problems.

Weight loss
It may come as a surprise to realize that zucchini is great for people seeking to lose weight. This is because it is extremely low in calories while giving you a feeling of being satiated, making it a perfect companion for weight watchers.

Lowers blood sugar levels
Diabetes and high blood glucose levels are two problems that are aggravated by the consumption of a low fiber and high carbohydrate diet. By consuming zucchini in your diet, you enhance the intake of fiber in your body which also reduces the amount of carbs you need as you feel and stay satiated longer. Making these simple dietary changes helps in reducing blood sugar levels while increasing your insulin sensitivity.

The above zucchini flowers medicinal properties are clear and convincing reasons why squash deserves a place on your plate, regularly.

Comments: Comments Off on Zucchini Flowers Medicinal Properties: 5 Reasons To Eat Squash Posted by: Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers
zucchini flowers medicinal properties

Eating Squash Flowers

May 29, 2019

Squash, also known as cucurbita pepo or courgette, is a herbaceous vine in the gourd family. It is native to the Mesoamerica and Andes region. Several species of the plant are cultivated worldwide for their edible fruits, leaves, and flowers and are commonly known as pumpkin, zucchini or gourd depending on the locality, variety, and species. Squash produces orange or yellow flowers with male and female features. Since these flowers are highly perishable, eating squash blossoms is a delicate affair as they are rarely stocked in food stores and supermarkets but occasionally can be found in farmers’ markets.

Squash flowers have been used for culinary purposes since time immemorial. In Asia, the blossoms are fried in batter to make a tasty, crunchy, tempura-like snack. In Italy, the flowers are stuffed and baked for savory packets while Native Americans were fond of making squash-blossom soup.

Fried squash flowers
From Italy to Mexico, frying is a highly popular method of preparing squash blossoms. To fry the flowers, just batter and fry them or stuff the blossoms first. For fillings, you can use goat cheese, ricotta, and fresh mozzarella. You can also add lemon zest to the cheese or season the fried blossoms with a dash of coarse salt and lemon juice.

Oven roasted stuffed squash flowers
Roasting squash blossoms rather than frying them turns the flowers into a delicious, light, summer dish.

Ingredients
8 squash flowers, stamen removed
3 tablespoons of olive oil
3 ounces goat cheese
3 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 bunch rainbow chard-leaves chopped and stems removed
3 cloves garlic, minced
Ground black pepper and salt to taste.

Process: Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan, toss in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add chard as you stir and cook until soft. Put in salt, basil, and pepper and cook for about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and place the cooled mixture between 2 towels, and press to get rid of excess moisture.

Add chard and goat cheese mixture in a bowl and stir until thoroughly mixed up. Fill squash blossoms with 3/4 of the goat cheese and close the ends by pinching them. Place the filled flowers in a roasting pan; sprinkle the mixture with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, pepper, and salt. Put in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes.

Ultimately, people have been eating squash blossoms for generations and these blossoms still hold their coveted place in the culinary world. So, how about trying some zucchini blossom recipes for dinner?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food
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