Halloween may be over, but that doesn’t mean the fall season is. It seems as though we’re putting away the jack o’ lanterns and fake cobwebs away for next year as quickly as we bringing out gourds and cornucopia centerpieces for Thanksgiving. While October is centered around Halloween, the month of November gives way to something a little closer to our hearts. And of course, our tummies. Butternut squash is a sweet and hearty vegetable we love especially during November, when the weather cools down and our palettes crave something a little more comforting.
Loaded with plenty of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium and fiber, butternut squash is incredibly nutritious and versatile. This winter squash’s sweet, nutty flavor and fibrous texture makes it one of fall’s most versatile dishes. Missing pumpkin from your recipe? Substitute it with butternut squash, instead! Here are some of the other ways you can enjoy butternut squash this season.
Baked Green Acorn and Butternut Squash
- One of the easiest ways to serve butternut squash is to roast them. Simply peel the tough skin off and stick them in the oven. Butternut squash tastes great on its own so just a bit of basic seasoning is needed to draw their naturally sweet flavor out.
- You could also roast butternut squash in the oven to soften them and then mash them. Their texture is similar to that of yams and sweet potatoes, except they’re slightly firmer.
Dried Cranberry and Basmati Rice Stuffed Butternut Squash
- Butternut squash can be hollowed and stuffed with many different items. Rice or quinoa mixed with dried fruit, vegetables and other items work beautifully. Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds and fibers.
- Save on washing dishes and prep time by serving this dish.
- Tip: Bake the butternut squash for a little bit to soften it up before stuffing it. This ensures all of your ingredients cook evenly and at the same time.
Biglieri Butternut Squash Soup
- A simple recipe with big flavor is butternut squash soup. Once cooked, butternut squash’s soft texture makes it easy to turn into soup by pureeing in a blender with other ingredients.
- Add your favorite fall vegetables along with garlic, onions, tomatoes and perhaps a bit of sherry for extra depth.
Other ways to try this seasonal favorite include the following:
- Everyone loves a good lasagna. Butternut Squash Lasagna makes a lovely fall alternative to this classic Italian dish. The sweet yet savory flavor of butternut squash complements many different pasta dishes.
- Also delicious served roughly cut, Butternut Squash with Pasta and Lima Beans are an amazing combination. Feel free to use whatever kind of beans you prefer.
- Who needs mashed potatoes when you’ve got Butternut Squash and Yam Mash? As stated earlier, butternut squash and sweet potatoes share a somewhat similar texture. Simply substitute your favorite mashed potato recipe with butternut squash instead.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy butternut squash? Let us know in the comments below!