Squash Preserves
Sweet and tangy squash preserves combine yellow squash, pineapple, lemon juice, and lemon jello for a delightful spread perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel, seed, and cut up the squash.
- Boil the squash for 6 minutes.
- Drain well and add sugar, crushed pineapple, and lemon juice.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 6 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add lemon jello.
- Pour into sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh, ripe yellow squash. If you're looking for a lower-sugar alternative, consider substituting some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like agave syrup. You can also experiment with adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist. Remember to sterilize your jars properly to ensure a longer shelf life.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your squash preserves as a delightful spread on toast or biscuits, or pair them with cream cheese for a delicious appetizer. They also complement savory dishes like roasted meats or can be used as a topping for pancakes. For a refreshing side, consider serving with Marinated Carrot And Green Bean Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store your squash preserves in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep them refrigerated and consume within a month for the best taste. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply scoop out the desired amount and gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Preserves contains roughly 411 calories, with 8g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (122% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
While yellow squash works best for its texture and flavor, you can experiment with zucchini or butternut squash. Just keep in mind that different squashes may alter the final taste and consistency of your preserves.
How long will these preserves last?
When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, your squash preserves can last up to a year. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and are best consumed within a month for optimal flavor and freshness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure that the lemon jello you use is free from animal products. Most brands offer vegan alternatives that work perfectly in this recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).