How to Cut Butternut Squash






Butternut squash is a delightful fall ingredient, but for those new to cooking with it, peeling and chopping this peculiar vegetable can seem daunting. Fear not! Here's a simple tutorial to show you how easy it is to cut butternut squash. It's a painless process! Once you've mastered it, you can use this delicious and beautiful squash in soups, salads, casseroles, pasta, and more.



Two whole butternut squashes on a blue background.
Two whole butternut squashes on a blue background.

How to Choose A Butternut Squash


When selecting a butternut squash, opt for one with smooth, light peach-colored skin. The flesh of the squash will be a vibrant orange color. Check for soft spots, dings, or damage. The squash should feel firm and heavy for its size.


Do You Need to Peel Butternut Squash?


If you plan to cube or slice the squash, it should be peeled first. However, if roasting the squash whole or halved, you can leave the skin on and scoop out the flesh after roasting.


What About the Seeds?


Remove the seeds from the squash before chopping or roasting. You can clean and roast the seeds just like pumpkin seeds.


How to Use Butternut Squash



Butternut squash is versatile and can be added to salads, casseroles, pasta, sauces, and more. It can often be used as a substitute for sweet potatoes in recipes. Here are some recipes that use butternut squash:




A butternut squash cut in half lengthwise with the insides exposed.
A butternut squash cut in half lengthwise with the insides exposed.

How to Peel and Cut Butternut Squash – Step by Step Photos



The end of a butternut squash being sliced off.
The end of a butternut squash being sliced off.

Start by creating a flat, stable surface on the squash to prevent it from rolling. Slice off the top and bottom to create flat surfaces.



Butternut squash being peeled with a vegetable peeler.
Butternut squash being peeled with a vegetable peeler.

Leave a Reply