Butternut Squash Recipes

A great all-rounder, butternut squash is incredibly versatile and ideal for creating tasty vegetarian and vegan recipes.

Butternut squash is a type of winter squash known for its sweet, nutty flavour and vibrant orange flesh. It typically has a long, bell-like shape with a pale beige or tan skin and bright orange flesh. The skin is thick and can be a bit tough, so it's typically peeled before cooking. Butternut squash has a mildly sweet and slightly nutty flavour. The flesh is dense and smooth when cooked, making it suitable for both savoury and sweet preparations.

How to cook butternut squash

- Roasting: Roasting butternut squash is a popular way to bring out its natural sweetness and enhance its flavour. Simply peel, cube, toss with oil and seasonings, and roast until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Soups: Butternut squash is a common ingredient in creamy soups, such as butternut squash soup or bisque. It adds a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness.
- Mashed: You can mash butternut squash, similar to mashed potatoes, and season it with butter, herbs, and spices for a delicious side dish.
- Risotto: Diced or pureed butternut squash can be added to risotto for extra creaminess and flavour.
- Pasta: Butternut squash can be used to make a creamy pasta sauce or stuffed into ravioli.
- Salads: Roasted butternut squash can be added to salads for added colour and flavour.
- Baking: Like sweet potatoes, butternut can also be added to baked goods such as muffins, bread, cakes, and pies, adding natural sweetness and moisture.

What pairs well with butternut squash?

Its sweet nutty taste goes wonderfully well with cheese, curry, coconut, almonds, allspice, pasta, lemon, tamari mushrooms, kale, spinach, fruits, sage & rosemary. A favourite ingredient of festive vegetarian and vegan recipes it never disappoints. Here are a few vegan and vegetarian butternut squash recipes to try: Hasselback Butternut with Mushrooms, Butternut Squash Quinoa Casserole, Butternut & Spinach Curry, Curried Butternut Squash Soup or Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus.

Seasonality

Butternut squash is a winter vegetable and is typically available from late summer through the fall and winter months. It's a great option for cold-weather cooking.

Nutritional Benefits

Butternut squash is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, potassium, fibre, and antioxidants. It's a healthy addition to your diet and can support immune function, eye health, and digestion.

Storage

Store whole butternut squash in a cool, dark place for several weeks. Once cut, store the unused portion in the refrigerator for a few days. You can also freeze cooked butternut squash for longer storage.