Squash the Virus

This week's featured Squash the Virus soup:


Chicken Butternut Green Chili
(S, DF, GF) Butternut squash, chicken, chicken stock, green chilies, hominy, onions, celery, garlic, cumin, oregano

Hominy is basically a superfood version of corn! It is a grain that is low in sugar, calories, and contains almost no fat. What it does contain is a whole lot of nutrients. it is also much easier to digest than corn and can be absorbed through the digestive track. That’s why it’s a staple in many Southern and Central American diets!


Being healthy starts with eating healthy.

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Did you know that squash are considered a “cold weather super food”?


Not only is it an abundant local crop during the Fall season, it’s a great way to load up on nutrients and keep your immune system in top shape.

Some of the health benefits found in Squash

Vitamin A: Supports healthy eyesight and immune system functions. It has direct links to keeping the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs working properly.


Vitamin B6: Important for normal brain development and keeping the immune and nervous systems healthy. It helps the body store energy from proteins and carbohydrates as well as maintain normal levels of amino acids in the blood.


Vitamin C: Vital to the body’s healing process and immune function. It is required to form blood vessels, cartilage, muscles, and collagen in bones. Additionally, it is known to be an aid in prevention and treatment of the common cold.


Folate: Aids in creating red and white blood cells, converting carbohydrates into energy, and producing DNA and RNA. It is also integral in early growth for development of the spine and brain.


Magnesium: A cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems throughout the body playing important roles in protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, regulating blood pressure, and supporting the immune system. It is required for energy production and contributes to healthy bone development, muscle contraction, and normal heart rhythm.


Fiber: Primarily known to keep a clean digestive track, flushing cholesterol and harmful carcinogens out of the body. It promotes maintaining a healthy weight as well as lowering your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and even some cancers.


Riboflavin: Helps in energy production, promotes healthy cellular function, growth, and development, plus the metabolism of fats and other toxins. It can even be an affective supplement for vegetarian athletes and in the relief of migraines.  


Potassium: An electrolyte that helps the body function properly, ranging from nerve function to muscle contraction. It aids in bringing nutrients into and waste out of cells as well as regulating heartbeat and counteracting the effects of sodium.

Overview:


Squash has numerous health benefits and supports your immune system!

For more information, check out  this article  by Live Smart Colorado, an extension of Colorado State University

"If everyone moves forward together, the success takes care of itself."

~ Henry Ford

Our owner, Tom Stoner, picking up the first round of butternut squash from Miller Farms!


This is more than a way to feel your best, it’s a way to promote the best.


Spoons has partnered with local farmers to ensure the freshest produce while supporting our community.

Eat Local - Support Local - Be Local


Our Local Farmers:

Hoffman Farms

“We are a family owned and operated farm specializing in vegetables. The farm is owned and operated by Hanmei Hoffman and Derrick Hoffman,. They are proud to call Colorado their home, and their children are 6th generation of Hoffman born in northern Colorado. We farm multiple locations in Weld County from north of Greeley to Ft. Lupton. We currently grown over 60 varieties that we sell direct to our customers.”

Miller Farms

A 4th Generation Family Farm! From General Store owners to Colorado beet farmers, and eventually running a small honor-system roadside stand, this family has been farming since 1949. In 1992, Chris and Joe took over the responsibilities of Miller Farms. They continued to sell produce at their roadside market and attend Farmers Markets along the Front Range but eventually expanded with their first “Potato Dig” in 1995. The public’s response to the festival was better than expected. Last year, their Annual Fall festival had over 15,00 visitors.

On the Vine at Richmond Farms

Located on over 3 acres, we pride ourselves on the quality and freshness of our organically grown vegetables and the neighborly presence of our farm.


We are a market farm, providing farm fresh items to stop-in customers. No need to get up early on Saturday for a Farmers’ Market- we have everything you need four days a week. Check us out during the growing season any time you see our roadside signs!


Also home of The Farmers’ Wife Flowers with over 100 varieties available!