Week One: Steamy Squash

When I was much, much younger, my mother would make effort after hopeless effort to get me to eat squash. Those weren't my fondest memories, but one thing I do remember is one of her favorite ways of preparing it. The best part is, it's so easy even a [college student] can do it!

Here's a list of ingredients to get us started:

1. 1 medium or large yellow squash or zucchini
2. water
3. 3 minutes of your time
   

I hope that list isn't too overwhelming, because its about to get a lot more intense.

1. Slice your squash/zucchini up into 1/2 or 1/4 inch pieces
2. Place your tasty-morsels-to-be into a microwave safe dish (bowl, measuring cup)
3. Fill 1/3 of the way with water
4. Throw (though I advise something more gentle) your dish into the microwave and nuke for 2-3 minutes (perhaps while you're waiting for your pizza in the oven)
   
5. Voila! The Incredible Edible [Vegetable]!

Now before you have a fit, let's talk about a few things. First, you might be thinking that these aren't going to taste very good. They don't taste too bad, but I can't blame you. Here's where your own creative genius kicks in:

• Try adding a pinch of seasoned salt, regular salt, and/or your favorite spice to the mix before microwaving, allowing the flavors to "get all up in it"
  
• Try a tablespoon of olive oil and some red wine vinegar after they're done cooking

Any way you cut it, sprinkle it on, or nuke it, you've just acquired 2 full servings (about a cup) of vegetables! How good do you feel?? And remember, you don't have to use these particular vegetables as this steaming method also works with things like broccoli, green beans, and anything else you can think of that might be good steamed. Play around with it and see what works best for you. After all, this is your health (and taste buds) we're talking about.