Can't Get Enough Butternut Squash?

lemon-maple squash

Cuban Squash on a Gray Dish

Photo by: Marcus Nilsson ©Marcus Nilsson

Marcus Nilsson, Marcus Nilsson

Butternut squash is one of the most popular of the winter squash varieties. Sure, it can be tricky to peel (try these tips, or go for pre-prepped options), but the yield is high and the uses are many.

Butternut squash is a respectable source of fiber, and the bright orange color means this bad boy is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene. One serving provides more than 350% of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of vitamin A, essential for good eyesight and healthy skin. The sweet winter squash is also rich in energizing B-complex vitamins.

Here are five simple uses for butternut squash:

Roast it: Keep it whole, cut into sections or wedges or cube it. Any way you slice it, roasted squash is a simple everyday side dish.

Add to a soup or stew: Butternut squash can easily be pureed to add texture and flavor to a soup or stew. Cut it into chunks and cook until tender for sweetness and soul-satisfying heartiness.

butternut squash salad

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Add to salad: A salad is the perfect vehicle for leftover squash, giving greens a seasonal, nourishing twist.

squash risotto

Risotto

Risotto with Vegetables in a White Dish beside a Purple Napkin

©Photographer: Kana Okada Food Stylist: Alison Attenborough Prop Stylist: Pamela or Molly

Photographer: Kana Okada Food Stylist: Alison Attenborough Prop Stylist: Pamela or Molly

Pair with grains: Butternut squash is a nice addition to simple grains like rice, farro and quinoa. The options are endless, from creamy risottos to grain-based salads.

squash stew

Add spices: The sweet flavor of butternut squash is a perfect partner for spices like cumin and turmeric.

Katie Cavuto Boyle, MS, RD, is a registered dietitian, personal chef and owner of HealthyBites, LLC. See Katie's full bio »

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