Butternut squash is a versatile and nutritious squash that can add a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your meals. In this article guide, we will explore the entire process, from selecting the perfect butternut squash, how to peel & cut butternut squash to cook in 3 different ways

1. How To Pick Butternut Squash

Appearance: Choose a squash with a firm, matte exterior. Avoid those with shiny or glossy skin, as they may be underripe.

Color: Look for a uniform beige or tan color. Avoid any green patches, as they indicate that the squash is not fully ripe.

Shape: Opt for a squash that is symmetrical and free from major blemishes or bruises. A well-proportioned neck and bulb are ideal.

Weight: A heavy squash typically indicates a good moisture content and is a sign of ripeness.

2. How To Peel And Cut Butternut Squash

Once you’ve selected the perfect butternut squash, the next step is to prepare it for cooking. Follow these steps to peel and cut the squash efficiently:

Wash the Squash: Rinse the squash under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

Cut Off the Ends: Using a sharp knife, trim off both ends of the squash.

Peel the Skin: Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to peel the tough skin. Ensure you remove the skin entirely to reveal the vibrant orange flesh.

Cut Into Halves: With the peeled squash, cut it into halves – separating the narrow neck from the bulbous end.

Remove Seeds: Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the bulbous end using a spoon.

Slice or Dice: Depending on your recipe, slice the neck into rounds or dice it into cubes. Cut the bulbous end into cubes as well.

3. How To Cook Butternut Squash in Oven

3.1. Roasted Butternut Squash Cubes

Ingredients

  • 1 butternut squash (gut & seeds removed, cut into 1-ich cubes) 
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp salt,
  • 2 tsp black pepper powder
  • 1 tsp oregano seasoning
  • 1/2 tbsp parsley leaves (freshly chopped for garnishing)
  • A baking tray, foil, and fork

Instructions

Step 1: Set the oven to 400°F for preheating. 

Step 2: Put the butternut squash cubes into a large bowl and mix them with olive oil, salt, black pepper powder & oregano seasoning.

Step 3: Line the baking tray with foil paper. Then spread out seasoned butternut squash cubes on the baking sheet. In a single layer, without overlapping.

Step 4: Place the tray in the oven for 25 minutes until the butternut squash is tender. 

How To Cook Butternut Squash Cube in the Oven

3.2. Baked Butternut Squash Halves

Ingredients

  • 1 large butternut squash
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Slice butternut squash in half lengthwise; scoop out and discard seeds and strings.

Place squash halves cut-side up on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle each half with 1 1⁄2 tablespoons olive oil.

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, garlic powder and a large pinch each of salt and pepper. Sprinkle spice mix evenly over oiled squash flesh.

Roast butternut squash for 45-50 minutes until extremely tender when pierced with a fork, and edges are browned.

Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Scoop out roasted squash flesh into bowls and enjoy!

4. How To Cook Butternut Squash on Stove

Ingredients

  • 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1⁄2-inch chunks
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shallots and cook 1 minute until translucent.

Add butternut squash and thyme to pan. Cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently until squash begins to brown.

Add maple syrup and continue cooking 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until squash is fork-tender.

Remove skillet from heat. Stir in remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil along with salt and pepper.

Transfer to a serving bowl, you can toss with chopped pecans or bacon bits before serving.

5. How To Cook Butternut Squash in Microwave

Ingredients

  • 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 tablespoons water or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
  • 1⁄8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pecans

Instructions

Place the cubed butternut squash pieces into a microwave-safe dish. Pour in water or broth.

Cover dish tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid. Microwave on HIGH for 6 minutes until fork tender.

Carefully remove from microwave; drain liquid. Add brown sugar and stir gently to coat squash.

Return to microwave and cook, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes more until sugar dissolves into a glaze.

Transfer glazed squash to serving bowl. Top with butter, pecans, salt, and pepper.

Now, you know how to cook butternut squash in 3 different ways. It’s pretty easy and simple, isn’t it?. I hope that after reading this article, you can easily enjoy the sweet and delicious taste of butternut squash at home. Good luck.

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julia jane

Julia Jane is a home cook inspired by her mother's cooking. With the desire to share my cooking experiences with everyone, she created this website

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