
Mashed Winter Squash is a creamy, comforting side dish made by cooking and mashing varieties like butternut, acorn, or pumpkin squash. It typically features the squash itself, butter, cream or milk, and a touch of seasoning like salt, pepper, or nutmeg. This dish is a staple in North American and European autumn and winter cuisine, often served alongside holiday meals.
It is a low-fat, low-protein dish that is a good source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. A one-cup serving provides significant amounts of vitamin A (as beta-carotene), potassium, and vitamin C, with a calorie count roughly between 150-200 calories depending on added fats.
| Calories | 80 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 12000 IU |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin E | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg |
| Folate | 20 mcg |
| Potassium | 500 mg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, it's a classic 'comfort food' that transforms a humble, storable gourd into a rich, elegant side. Nutritionally, its deep orange color signals a high concentration of antioxidants, making it a nutrient-dense choice that supports eye and immune health.