Weekly Alibi . Winter Squash . You know the seasons have changed when the grocers' produce bins are brimming with hard-shelled winter squash of all shapes and sizes.
Winter squash are actually edible gourds.
Their tough outer skin and large seeds are the result of being allowed to ripen on the vine. All have pale yellow to orange colored flesh and flavors that are remarkably similar. These vegetables are good for you, too. They pack a big nutritional punch without any trade-offs. Rich in potassium and fiber, low in fat and sodium, squash are a source of vitamin C and one of the best sources of beta-carotene, which our bodies convert to vitamin A. All of this for only 40 to 55 calories per half cup of mashed squash.