How to Eat Butternut Squash: Roasting, Boiling, Mashing, Sauteing & Steaming

Introduction

Butternut squash is a winter favorite that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With its sweet and nutty flavor, it’s a great addition to both savory and sweet dishes. It’s also a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium, and magnesium. Whether you’re looking for an easy side dish or a hearty main course, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this seasonal vegetable.

Overview of Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a type of winter squash, which is a group of fruits known for their hard rinds and long storage capabilities. It has a tan-colored skin and bright orange flesh. The shape of the squash resembles a bell, with a thin neck and bulbous bottom. The neck can be peeled and cubed, while the bulbous bottom can be roasted whole and then scooped out.

Nutritional Benefits

Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, potassium, and magnesium. One cup (205 grams) of cooked, cubed butternut squash provides more than 200 percent of the daily value (DV) of vitamin A, and 17 percent of the DV of vitamin C. It also provides 4 grams of fiber, which is 16 percent of the DV.

Versatility

Butternut squash is incredibly versatile. It can be roasted, boiled, mashed, sautéed, or steamed. It can also be used in soups, stews, casseroles, and even desserts. With its mild sweetness, it can be paired with both savory and sweet ingredients.

Roasting

Roasting is one of the best ways to bring out the natural sweetness of butternut squash. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).

Cut and season

Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Rub the flesh with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side up on a baking sheet.

Place on baking sheet

Place the squash cut-side up on a baking sheet.

Roast for 45 minutes

Roast for 45 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender. Let cool slightly before serving.

Boiling

Boiling is another easy way to cook butternut squash. Here’s how to do it:

Peel and cube

Peel the squash and cut into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a pot and cover with water.

Boil in salted water

Add a teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Drain and season

Drain the water and season with salt, pepper, and butter as desired. Serve warm.

Mashing

Mashed butternut squash makes a great side dish or topping for toast. Here’s how to do it:

Peel and cube

Peel the squash and cut into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a pot and cover with water.

Simmer for 10-15 minutes

Add a teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Mash with potato masher or immersion blender

Drain the water and mash the squash with a potato masher or immersion blender. Add butter, cream, or milk as desired.

Season as desired

Season with salt, pepper, and herbs as desired. Serve warm.

Sauteing

Sautéed butternut squash makes a flavorful side dish. Here’s how to do it:

Heat skillet over medium heat

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil.

Cut squash into cubes

Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes. Add the cubes to the skillet and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

Add spices and herbs as desired

Add spices and herbs as desired. Serve warm.

Steaming

Steaming is a quick and easy way to cook butternut squash. Here’s how to do it:

Place cubed squash in steamer basket

Place cubed squash in a steamer basket. Place the basket over boiling water and cover.

Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes

Steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the squash is tender. Discard any excess liquid.

Season as desired

Season with salt, pepper, and herbs as desired. Serve warm.

Conclusion

Butternut squash is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Roasting, boiling, mashing, sautéing, and steaming are all easy and delicious ways to prepare it. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a hearty main course, butternut squash is sure to please.