How To Cut Butternut Squash (Peeling And Cubing)

Do you love butternut squash or do you want to learn the best way to peel butternut squash and cube butternut squash? If so you’ve come to the right place. This article will teach you the best way to peel and cut this delicious vegetable and share some great recipe ideas. Enjoy!

If you already know how to cut butternut squash safely, check out our Plantain Tortillas recipe or my article on How To Organize Your Pantry. Or maybe send this to your family member who isn’t sure how to cut up a squash either!

What Is Butternut Squash?

Butternut squash is a type of winter squash that has a sweet nutty flavor and slightly grainy texture. You can prepare butternut squash for baking, roasting, steaming, or stuffing.

What Does Butternut Squash Taste Like?

Butternut squash tastes like a mix of pumpkin and sweet potato. It is often used as an addition to soups, stews, casseroles, risottos, or as a side dish. Here is a fantastic article telling you exactly what butternut squash tastes like!

Is Butternut Squash Healthy?

Butternut squash is indeed healthy. It is high in fiber, vitamin A, potassium and magnesium. It also contains a good amount of plant-based protein and calcium for those looking to add more vegetarian sources of these nutrients into their diet.

Furthermore, butternut squash has been found to reduce the risk of certain types of cancers as well as help to reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

How Many Carbs In Butternut Squash?

Butternut squash contains 7g of carbohydrates per 100g, making it a great low-carb option. It is also high in fiber, which helps to promote good digestive health and can help you feel more full for longer periods of time.

How To Cut Butternut Squash

Before you attempt to cut your butternut squash on the cutting board you’ll need to peel and clean your veg. Grab a well sharpened knife and veggie peeler and get ready to cut and peel.

Here is a step by step tutorial for preparing butternut squash well.

How To Peel Butternut Squash

The secret to peeling & cubing a butternut squash is to get a really, really sharp knife. I’m not kidding. This is the vegetable knife I use.

Cut the top & bottom of the butternut squash so you have a flat surface to rest on while peeling your veg. Next chop the butternut squash in half.

Peeling Butternut Squash

Using your knife, carefully slice down to cut the peel away. If you want to use a vegetable peeler then that’s perfectly okay, use a sharp vegetable peeler like the pro swivel vegetable peeler. I find using a knife easier as the butternut squash skin can be a little tough.

How To Cut Butternut Squash

For the top half, cut each section of your butternut squash into slices, stack your slices & cut into long strips. Then cut those strips into cubes!

Cutting butternut squash for the first time can be tricky, so take your time and practice! If you don’t want to cut cubes then you can also chop the top half into wedges.

For the bottom half, cut in half, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds with a large spoon or ice cream scoop. Then lie each half of the cut butternut on it’s side & slice. Take each slice of butternut squash & cube into small pieces.

Don’t Use A Dull Knife

When you prep butternut squash try not to use a dull knife. A dull knife can be dangerous because it can slip off the butternut squash skin and cut you.

Sharp knives will give you more control when cutting & peeling the veg. Safety First!

Check Out our article on Knife Safety Tips for kids.

Can You Eat Butternut Squash Skin?

Yes, you can eat the skin of butternut squash. It is entirely edible and it contains vitamin A as well as other vitamins and minerals. However, some people prefer to peel the skin off because it can be tough and difficult to chew.

How Do You Cook Butternut Squash?

Now you have your butternut squash cubes, you’re ready to cook it. You can cook your butternut squash in a variety of ways, such as roasting, sautéing, steaming and boiling. It’s also great to add to soups and stews!

How To Roast Butternut Squash

To roast butternut squash cubes: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.

Place the cubed butternut squash onto baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes or until softened when pierced with a fork.

How To Saute Butternut Squash

To sauté butternut squash cubes: Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add cubed butternut squash and cook for 8-10 minutes or until softened and lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

How To Boil Butternut Squash

And that’s it! You now know how to cut butternut squash. Now go ahead & enjoy this delicious winter vegetable in your favorite recipes. Enjoy!

Can I Cook Butternut Squash In The Instant Pot?

Yes! Cooking winter squash in the Instant Pot is a great way to save time and still get all of the health benefits from this veggie. Here’s how it’s done:

Start by cubing your butternut squash (follow instructions above). The butternut squash prep time should take around 5-10 minutes.

Place the cut butternut cubes in your Instant Pot, add one cup of water or vegetable stock and set to high pressure for 3 minutes.

Let the steam release naturally for 15 minutes before releasing your Instant Pot manually.

Once done, you can serve the squash as is or use it in your favorite recipes! Check out this delicious and easy Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup recipe.

Overall, butternut squash is a wonderful and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you’re roasting, sautéing or boiling your butternut squash, you know now how to properly cut and prepare it. Enjoy!

How Long Does Butternut Squash Last?

Butternut squash will last up to 3 months when stored in a cool, dry place.

You can also keep it in the refrigerator if you plan on using it within a week or so. Butternut squash can also be frozen for up to 6 months.

Can You Freeze Butternut Squash?

Yes, to freeze, cut into cubes and place in an airtight container. When ready to use, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and use as normal.

How To Tell If Butternut Squash Is Bad

If your butternut squash has gone bad, you will notice signs such as soft spots or discoloration. If the squash has a sour smell, this is an indication it has gone bad and should be discarded.

You can also tell if squash has gone bad by tasting it – if it tastes bitter or off then discard immediately.