Butternut Squash Recipes: Easy and Delicious Ways to Cook It

butternut squash - oh, how I love this versatile vegetable! It’s a real kitchen staple for me, especially during the autumn and winter months. I remember the first time I tried it - it was in a creamy soup, and I was hooked! Since then, I've discovered countless ways to cook it, and I'm always on the lookout for new recipes. So, if you're looking for some inspiration to get you started with butternut squash, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll delve into various ways to cook this humble veggie, from simple roasting to more elaborate dishes. We'll cover everything from choosing the perfect squash to storing it for later use.

(Part 1) The Basics: Choosing and Preparing Your Butternut Squash

Before we get into the recipes, let's talk about the basics. Choosing a good butternut squash is crucial for a delicious end product. Here's what to look for:

Picking the Perfect Butternut Squash

First, look for a squash that's firm and heavy for its size. This indicates that it's ripe and juicy. The skin should be smooth and free of any blemishes or soft spots. Avoid those with a green stem, as this means they’re not fully ripened yet. A deep orange colour is a sign of sweetness.

Storing Your Butternut Squash

Once you've got your squash, store it in a cool, dry place, ideally away from direct sunlight. Butternut squash can last for several weeks at room temperature, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. Just make sure to keep it away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas, which can cause it to spoil quicker.

Preparing the Butternut Squash

Now, it's time to prepare your squash. I find it easiest to cut it in half lengthwise. You can then scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Next, depending on the recipe, you can either peel and dice it, or just leave the skin on and roast it whole. If you’re leaving the skin on, you may want to score it slightly with a knife to prevent it from exploding in the oven! Just a little tip from someone who has been there…

(Part 2) Roasting: A Simple Yet Delicious Way

Roasting is my go-to method for cooking butternut squash. It's so easy, and it brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.

The Classic roasted butternut squash Recipe

To roast, simply preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and toss diced butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. I often add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also add a little maple syrup for extra sweetness. Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes, or until tender. You can also roast a whole butternut squash – simply cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, drizzle with olive oil and seasoning, and roast face down on a baking sheet for about 45 minutes, or until tender. This makes a lovely side dish, or a base for other dishes, like soup. For a twist, try adding some herbs like rosemary or sage to the roasting pan.

Tips for roasting butternut squash

1. To make the roasting process even easier, try using parchment paper on your baking sheet. It makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
2. For a quicker cooking time, try slicing the squash into thinner pieces. Just make sure they’re not too thin, or they might burn.
3. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the pieces of squash space to cook evenly.

(Part 3) Savoury Dishes: Exploring the Savoury Side of Butternut Squash

Butternut squash isn't just for sweet dishes! It's surprisingly versatile and can add a delicious depth of flavour to savoury meals. Here are some of my favourite savoury recipes:

Butternut squash soup: A Creamy and Comforting Classic

This is a classic for a reason – it's creamy, comforting, and incredibly flavourful. I often roast my butternut squash before blending it into soup, but you can also use raw, diced squash. For an extra punch of flavour, add some fresh ginger or curry powder. And don’t forget a swirl of cream or a dollop of Greek yoghurt on top.

butternut squash risotto: A Creamy and Savoury Delight

This dish is absolutely divine. The sweetness of the butternut squash blends beautifully with the creamy, cheesy risotto. I like to add a handful of toasted pine nuts and a drizzle of sage butter for extra flavour.

Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Salad: A Simple Yet Stunning Salad

A simple, yet stunning salad that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Just toss roasted or sautéed butternut squash with your favourite greens, crumbled goat cheese, a sprinkle of toasted walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. The contrasting textures and flavours are divine.

Butternut Squash and Lentil Stew: A Hearty and Warming Option

This stew is a wonderful combination of hearty lentils, sweet butternut squash, and aromatic spices. It's a perfect winter warmer and is easily made vegetarian by omitting the sausage. Just simmer it all together until the lentils are tender and the squash is soft.

Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta: A Flavorful Fusion Dish

This dish is a delicious and satisfying fusion of Italian pasta, savory sausage, and sweet butternut squash. Just cook the pasta al dente, saute the squash and sausage, and combine everything with some herbs and a splash of red wine. It’s a simple dish that’s big on flavor.

(Part 4) Sweet Delights: Exploring the Squash's Sweet Side

Yes, butternut squash can be sweet too! It's a surprising ingredient in many desserts and is a great alternative to traditional pumpkin.

butternut squash pie: A Crowd-Pleasing Dessert

This is a real crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to showcase the squash's natural sweetness. You can use a traditional pie crust or try a gluten-free option for a healthier twist. I like to add a touch of maple syrup to the filling for extra sweetness. Top it with a flaky crust and enjoy!

butternut squash muffins: A Delicious and Healthy Snack

These muffins are a great way to enjoy butternut squash for breakfast or a quick snack. They're moist, flavorful, and perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. I like to add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a warm, cozy flavour.

butternut squash bread: A Delightful Combination of Sweet and Savoury

This bread is a delightful combination of sweet and savoury. It's perfect for a light lunch or a warm and comforting snack. I like to add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavour.

Butternut Squash Cheesecake: A Unique and Delectable Dessert

This cheesecake is a unique and delicious twist on the classic. It combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet and earthy flavor of butternut squash. It’s an impressive dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.

Butternut Squash Ice Cream: A Refreshing and Seasonal Treat

This ice cream is a refreshing and seasonal treat that’s perfect for a hot summer day. It's surprisingly flavorful and creamy, and it's a great way to use up leftover roasted butternut squash. Just blend the roasted squash with some cream, sugar, and spices, and churn it in your ice cream maker.

(Part 5) Exploring Different Cultures: Global Inspiration

Butternut squash isn't just a British staple; it's enjoyed worldwide. It appears in countless cuisines, and its flavour profile lends itself to various culinary traditions.

Indian butternut squash curry: A Rich and Creamy Curry

This rich and creamy curry is a perfect example of how butternut squash can be used in a spicy and flavorful way. It’s a real taste sensation, and it's easy to make. You can use coconut milk for a richer and creamier sauce.

Italian butternut squash pasta: A Simple and Delicious Dish

This dish is a fantastic fusion of Italian and autumnal flavours. It's simple and quick to make and is an easy way to impress guests. Simply roast butternut squash, then toss it with pasta, Parmesan cheese, and some herbs like sage or rosemary.

Mexican butternut squash soup: A Flavorful and Warming Soup

This soup is a flavour explosion, combining the sweetness of butternut squash with the heat of Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika. It's a warm and comforting dish that's perfect for a chilly day.

Thai Butternut Squash Curry: A Aromatic and Delicious Curry

This curry is a beautiful blend of sweet butternut squash, spicy chilis, and fragrant herbs like lemongrass and basil. It's a perfect example of how butternut squash can be used in a vibrant and flavorful way.

Japanese butternut squash salad: A Fresh and Light Salad

This salad is a refreshing and light dish that's perfect for a hot summer day. It combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the tartness of citrus and the crunch of nuts. It's a beautiful and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.

(Part 6) Beyond the Usual: Creative Ways to Cook Butternut Squash

Now, let's get creative! There are countless ways to cook butternut squash beyond the traditional methods.

Grilled Butternut Squash: A Smoky and Charred Flavor

Grilling adds a smoky, charred flavour to the squash, making it a perfect accompaniment to barbequed meats or vegetables. Simply slice the squash into rounds and brush with olive oil and seasonings before grilling.

Butternut Squash Fritters: A Fun and Delicious Appetizer

These fritters are a fun and delicious way to enjoy butternut squash. You can add other ingredients like herbs, spices, or even cheese for extra flavour. These are ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish.

Butternut Squash Hummus: A Unique and Delicious Twist

This hummus is a unique and delicious twist on the classic chickpea version. It’s incredibly versatile – you can use it as a dip for vegetables, spread it on sandwiches, or even use it as a sauce for grilled meat or fish.

Butternut Squash Noodles: A Healthy and Flavorful Alternative

Butternut squash can be easily transformed into noodles using a spiralizer. This is a great way to add a unique twist to your favorite pasta dishes and it’s a healthy alternative to traditional pasta. You can toss them in a variety of sauces or enjoy them with a simple drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs.

butternut squash chips: A Crunchy and Healthy Snack

These chips are a healthy and delicious alternative to potato chips. They're crispy, flavorful, and perfect for snacking or as a side dish. Just slice the squash thinly, toss it with olive oil and seasoning, and bake it in a preheated oven until crispy.

(Part 7) Tips for Cooking Butternut Squash

I've learned a few tips and tricks over the years that make cooking butternut squash even easier.

Using Leftover Butternut Squash

If you have leftover roasted butternut squash, don't throw it away! It can be used in so many different ways. You can use it as a topping for salads, add it to soups and stews, or even blend it into smoothies. You can also freeze it for later use.

Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation! So, don’t be afraid to try different flavour combinations and cooking techniques. You might just discover your new favourite butternut squash recipe.

A Quick Tip on Removing the Skin

While the skin of butternut squash is edible, it can be a bit tough. If you’re using the squash in a dish that requires diced squash, you’ll want to peel it. A good way to peel butternut squash is to use a vegetable peeler. Just hold the squash firmly and gently run the peeler along the skin. If you find it difficult to peel, try microwaving the squash for a minute or two. This will soften the skin and make it easier to peel.

(Part 8) FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about butternut squash:

Q: How do I know if butternut squash is ripe?

A: Look for a squash that's firm and heavy for its size, with a deep orange colour and a smooth, blemish-free skin. Avoid those with a green stem, as this means they’re not fully ripened yet.

Q: Can I eat the skin of butternut squash?

A: Yes, you can! The skin is edible, but it can be tough. If you’re roasting the squash whole, you can leave the skin on, but if you’re dicing it, it’s best to peel it first.

Q: Can I freeze butternut squash?

A: Yes, you can freeze butternut squash. To freeze, simply roast it until tender, then let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To use frozen butternut squash, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then use it as you would fresh squash.

Q: How long does it take to roast butternut squash?

A: It depends on the size and thickness of the squash, but generally, it takes about 20-30 minutes to roast diced butternut squash and about 45 minutes to roast a whole squash.

Q: What are the health benefits of butternut squash?

A: Butternut squash is packed with nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. It's also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your body from cell damage.

I hope you've enjoyed this journey into the wonderful world of butternut squash. It’s such a versatile and delicious vegetable, and I encourage you to try some of these recipes and discover the many ways to enjoy it. Don’t forget to share your culinary adventures with me – I'd love to hear about your favourite butternut squash dishes!