Butternut squash is extremely versatile and at its peak in the winter; it’s no surprise you’ve been seeing it everywhere. If you want to try your hand at cooking this multi-talented vegetable at home, then there are a few tips to keep in mind. When picking out your gourd, look for a deep yellow color with a matte skin. The stem should be firm and dry and there should be no cuts or cracks on the squash itself. Lastly, it should be a bit hefty as the weight signifies a more developed flavor. These babies can keep for up to three months or more if stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Ready to get started? From baking to mashing to sauteeing, here are 7 butternut squash recipes to try at home. Plus, find the best way to cut Butternut Squash here!
1. Butternut Squash Cavatelli
Photo Credit: Corine Michele
This cozy pasta from Relish Restaurant & Bar in Houston is tossed in a delicious pomodoro sauce. The tender squash and the crevices of the Cavatelli noodles soak up every drop. Don’t be shy: This pasta is best smothered in freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Butternut Squash Soup
Photo Credit: Third Coast
Big simmering pots of soup are what winter cooking is all about. This easy one-pot recipe from Third Coast in Houston is creamy and soothing. Toasted pecans and crispy bacon sprinkled on top are a great contrasting crunch to the silky pureed soup. Use a hand-held immersion blender for easy blending or puree in a blender in batches.
3. Buttery Butternut Squash Puree
Photo Credit: Tasting Table
Butter and brown sugar make this 4-ingredient side dish from Prego in Houston the perfect sidekick for any winter roast. This super-simple recipe uses ingredients you probably already have around your kitchen, so all you need to pick up at the store is your squash.
4. Tagliatelle Pasta with Butternut Squash
Photo Credit: H Town Restaurant Group
Twirl forkfuls of tender Tagliatelle pasta tossed with homemade pesto and roasted butternut squash from Houston’s own star chef, Hugo Ortega. This zippy pesto is made with cilantro and roasted kale instead of your standard basil. Top the pasta with a dollop of goat cheese for added creaminess.
5. Roasted Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprout Hash
Photo Credit: Spices in my DNA
Brussels sprouts don’t have to be boring, especially when butternut squash and bacon are involved. After roasting your squash, this crowd-pleasing side from Boudro’s and Zinc in San Antonio comes together in minutes. See how to make it here!
6. Stuffed Butternut Squash Boats
Photo Credit: Parkside
For the perfect healthy, but hearty, winter dinner, bake a butternut squash stuffed with winter greens, caramelized apples and sausage. This cold weather dish from Parkside in Austin is a filling main course or a great side dish for the entire family to share.
7. Vegan Butternut Squash Chili
Photo Credit: Yellowbird Foods
A pot of satisfying, spicy chili is just what you need when the temperature starts to drop. What’s even better? It’s vegan! Packed full of vegetables, sweet butternut squash, fiber-rich quinoa and warming spices like cinnamon, turmeric and cumin, this chili is great for dinner or lunch at your desk the next day. The extra hit of habanero also is sure to clear out your sinuses if you’re down with a winter cold.
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