Butternut squash is a pale-orange or yellow-skinned, bulbous vegetable. Although it is in the winter squash family, butternut squash is available year-round. Enjoy it baked as a low-calorie, nutritious side dish.

A 1-cup serving of baked butternut squash provides 82 calories, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Nutrient Database.

One cup of the squash offers 568 milligrams of potassium, over 22,000 International Units of vitamin A, 2.6 milligrams of vitamin E and 84 milligrams of calcium. You'll also get 6.6 grams of filling fiber and 21.5 grams of energy-producing carbohydrate.

Baking is a healthy cooking method to prepare butternut squash. Add cinnamon or other spices for additional flavor. Butter and cream will add calories and fat to your dish.