Butternut Squash: A Delicious Way To Eat More Veggies

Butternut squash is a delicious and healthy way to eat more veggies. You can use it in many recipes, such as ravioli with butternut squash, or pasta with butternut squash noodles. You can also use it to make gnocchi!

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious way to eat more veggies, look no further than butternut squash. This versatile squash can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes. Not only is butternut squash packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, it’s also incredibly flavorful and easy to prepare. So next time you’re looking for a healthy and delicious way to add more veggies to your diet, give it a try!

What is Butternut Squash?

Butternut squash is a type of winter squash that is typically harvested in the fall. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

This versatile vegetable can be roasted, pureed, or added to soups and stews. It’s also a great way to get more vegetables into your diet.

So why not give it a try? You might just be surprised at how delicious it is!

History of Butternut Squash

The word “butternut” is derived from the old French word “boute-nez”, meaning “nose-shaped”. The squash was first cultivated by Native Americans in Mexico and Central America. It was then brought to North America by European settlers.

It is a member of the cucurbita family, which includes pumpkins, zucchini, and other winter squash. The squash is thought to have originated in the region that includes parts of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Peru.

This is a popular ingredient in many dishes, both sweet and savory. It can be roasted, pureed, or added to soups and stews. The flesh of the squash is orange and has a sweet, nutty flavor.

If you’re looking for a delicious way to eat more veggies, look no further than butternut squash!

Nutrition Facts

Did you know that one cup of butternut squash contains over 20% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A? That’s an impressive amount of this important nutrient, and it’s just one of the many reasons you should consider adding it to your diet.

This winter squash is also a good source of fiber, potassium, and magnesium. It’s low in calories and fat, making it a great choice if you’re watching your weight. Plus, it’s delicious!

There are many ways to enjoy butternut squash. You can roast it, puree it, or even add it to soups and stews. Give it a try today and see how easy and delicious eating more veggies can be!

Recipe ideas for Butternut Squash

One of the best things about butternut squash is its versatility. This delicious vegetable can be used in a variety of recipes, from soups and stews to pastas and casseroles. Here are a few of our favorite recipes that feature this nutrient-rich ingredient:

Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons: This soup is creamy and comforting, with just the right amount of sweetness from the butternut squash. The grilled cheese croutons add a tasty crunch.

Risotto: This risotto is packed with flavor, thanks to the butternut squash, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. It’s the perfect fall or winter meal.

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: This salad is a great way to enjoy butternut squash in a lighter dish. The roasted squash is paired with greens, dried cranberries, and a simple vinaigrette.

Mac and Cheese: This mac and cheese is rich and creamy, with chunks of butternut squash throughout. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cold day.

Ravioli with butternut squash

This ravioli is a delicious and easy way to get your daily dose of veggies. You can make this dish with fresh squash, spinach, and ricotta cheese, and is served with a simple tomato sauce. Butternut squash ravioli is a great option for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

Add 1 package of ravioli
-1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
-1 bunch of spinach, washed and dried
Add 1 cup of ricotta cheese
-1 jar of tomato sauce
-Salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. In a large pot, boiling water and cook ravioli according to package instructions.
3. While ravioli is cooking, add butternut squash to a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25 minutes.
4. One you have roasted the butternut squash, add it to a blender or food processor with spinach, ricotta cheese, tomato sauce, salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Serve sauce over cooked ravioli and enjoy!

Butternut squash noodle recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious way to eat more veggies, look no further than this butternut squash noodle recipe! Made with spiraled butternut squash, this dish is healthy, flavorful, and OH SO satisfying. Trust us, you’re going to want to make this one again and again!

Ingredients:

1 large butternut squash, peeled and spiralized into noodles
-1 tbsp. olive oil
-1/2 tsp. salt
-1/4 tsp. black pepper
Add 1 cloves garlic, minced
-1/2 cup chicken broth
-1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

How to prepare:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the butternut squash noodles, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are slightly softened.
3. Add the garlic and chicken broth. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the noodles are cooked through.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Gnocchi with butternut squash

Gnocchi is a type of Italian dumpling that is usually made with potato. However, this recipe uses squash instead, making it a healthier option. The squash gives the gnocchi a lovely sweetness and helps to bind the ingredients together.

To make the gnocchi, start by roasting the butternut squash in the oven. Once it’s softened and cooked through, mash it up with some ricotta cheese and an egg. Then add in some flour, salt and pepper, and mix everything together until it forms a dough.

Roll the dough into long snakes and then cut them into small pieces. You can then either cook them straight away or freeze them for later. To cook, simply drop them into boiling water and wait until they float to the surface. Serve with your favorite sauce or simply with some butter and sage.

Spaghetti with butternut squash

One of our favorite ways to enjoy butternut squash is in this spaghetti dish. The squash adds a creamy texture and sweetness to the sauce, while the spinach provides a boost of antioxidants. So not only is this dish delicious, it’s also good for you!

Ingredients:

Add 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
-1 tablespoon olive oil
-1 onion, diced
-3 cloves garlic, minced
-1 teaspoon dried oregano
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Add 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
-1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
-1 pound spaghetti
-1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to prepare:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a large roasting pan, toss the squash with the olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
3. Add the tomatoes and spinach to the pan and stir to combine. Return to the oven and roast for another 15 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.
5. Add the roasted vegetable sauce to the pasta and stir to combine.

Serve with Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Butternut squash is a delicious way to eat more veggies, and it’s also incredibly versatile. You can use it in soups, stews, pasta dishes, or simply roast it and enjoy it as a side dish. It’s packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, so it’s a great choice for anyone looking to improve their overall health. Give it a try the next time you’re looking for a new way to eat more vegetables!

FAQ Butternut Squash

What does butternut squash taste like?

It tastes sweet and nutty. You can roast, mash, or puree them and use in soups, pies, and other dishes.

How to freeze it?

Butternut squash can be frozen in a few different ways. One way is to blanch the squash. This means you would cook the squash for a short period of time, then shock it in ice water. After the squash has cooled, you can then cut it into cubes and freeze it. Another way to freeze this veggie is to roast it. You would simply roast the squash whole, then allow it to cool before cutting it into cubes and freezing it.

When are they ripe?

You’ll know a butternut squash is ripe when its skin has turned a deep, golden brown. Another way to tell if a squash is ripe is by thumping it with your fingers – if it sounds hollow, it’s ready to be eaten!

How long do butternut squash last?

It can last for several months if stored properly. Cure your squash by storing it in a cool, dark place for 10 days to two weeks after harvest. After curing, store your squash in a cool (50-55°F), dry place. It is best used within three to four months of storage.