Ways to Use Butternut Squash
The butternut squash is one of the most versatile of the winter squashes, as it lends itself to many preparations. Butternut squash can be sautéed, mashed, boiled, roasted or steamed-in other words, it can be used in almost all the ways you might use a potato. In addition, because butternut squash has a sweet, mild flavor, it is delicious when added to breads, pancakes, pies or soufflés.
Saute
Diced, sautéed butternut squash can be added to everything from stir-fries to risottos. Begin by peeling the squash--this can be done with any vegetable peeler. Slice the squash in half length-wise and discard the seeds. Dice the squash and saute. Butternut squash pairs well with a wide range of flavors, including nuts, parsley, garlic, thyme, olive oil, nutmeg, chilis, ginger, sage, pork, tarragon, onions, cream and greens. For an unusual stir-fry, try frying squash with green onions, pork, fresh ginger and soy or hoisin sauce. Butternut squash sautéed in olive oil can be a delectable pizza topping, especially when accompanied by a white sauce or pesto; Fontina, Gruyere, Romano or Parmesan cheese; and toppings like sausage, fresh herbs and roasted onions. Sauteed squash can be added to salads. Toss some into a chutney or fruit salad, or pair it with spinach, tart cranberries, walnuts and sherry vinaigrette to make a warm autumn salad. Pasta can be tossed with a mixture of sautéed butternut squash, pancetta, shallots and rosemary, while risottos can be enriched by butternut squash fried with tarragon, pine nuts and radicchio. Finally, butternut squash is a favorite filling for ravioli and lasagna, especially when enhanced by roasted garlic, blue cheese and sage.
Roast
Another popular way to prepare butternut squash is to roast it. Split the squash down the middle, seeded, into a 400-degree oven. Some cooks choose to season the squash with olive oil, butter or nut oils, as well as sweet and savory flavorings. Honey, maple syrup or brown sugar can bring out the butternut's sweet side, while garlic, cheese and fresh herbs accent other facets. Choose your favorite ingredients and sprinkle the squash with them before roasting. You can also choose to peel and dice the squash before tossing it with your preferred flavorings. You may also choose to gratin it with lots of cream, pepper, goat cheese and onions. You can also make butternut squash home fries by tossing the chunked squash with olive oil and spices and roasting it until crispy on the outside and tender within.
Boil, Steam or Puree
Butternut squash is easy to boil or steam. It should be diced before cooking. Once tender, it can be eaten on its own or mashed. Try mashing butternut squash in the same way you would make mashed potatoes and topping it with crumbled bacon, sour cream, green onions and cheese. You can also mash it with nutmeg, pepper, cream and brown sugar. Steamed squash can also be pureed. Pureed squash can be spiced and served as a side for chicken or pork, or you can make it into soup. Blended with chicken stock, onions, olive oil and spices, butternut squash can make a satisfying lunch on a rainy day. It can be accented with chives, cumin, chili powder, fresh parsley, fresh ginger or even cream.
Bake
Pureed squash can also be added to a number of baked goods. Try substituting it for canned pumpkin when making pumpkin pie, or add it in place of zucchini when making zucchini bread. A little pureed butternut squash can add fiber to your pancakes, while butternut squash soufflé can be an elegant finish to a winter meal.
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