How to Cook Butternut Squash Cubes
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How to Cook Butternut Squash Cubes
Description
To prepare butternut squash cubes, first trim the ends and peel the squash using a sturdy peeler. After halving and removing seeds, cut into one-inch cubes. The recipe offers three cooking options. Roasting in a 425°F oven with olive oil and salt caramelizes the edges while making the interior tender, stirring halfway through 30 to 40 minutes of cooking.
Alternatively, boiling the cubes in salted water for 8 to 10 minutes softens the squash quickly, and this method suits recipes requiring cooked squash cubes. Microwaving with water and covered tightly allows rapid cooking in about 12 minutes, providing convenience when pressed for time.
These methods produce soft, flavorful squash cubes useful for mashing, soups, stews, or as a side dish. Using minimal seasoning ensures the squash’s natural sweetness and texture are the focus.
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash large
- olive oil as needed
- salt as needed
Instructions
- Trim each end off of the squash. Using a sturdy Y-peeler, peel the squash. Cut the peeled squash in half, then scoop and discard the seeds. Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.
To Roast in Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 425˚F. Scatter the cubed squash on a rimmed baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Season to taste with salt, then toss with your hands so the oil is evenly distributed. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring the squash halfway through cooking time, or until caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside.
To Cook on the Stovetop:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a small pinch of salt, then add squash cubes. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle boil and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender. Drain and serve as desired.
To Cook Squash Cubes in the Microwave:
- Add squash cubes to a large microwave safe bowl and add two cups of water. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, and make a few vent holes in the plastic with a fork. Cook for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the squash is tender. Drain and serve as desired.
Notes
- The nutrition information applies only to the butternut squash, excluding added oil or salt.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 84 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 84kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 22g | 7% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 0.2g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.04g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1g | 1% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.01g | 0% |
| Sodium | 8mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 660mg | 14% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 19931IU | 399% |
| Vitamin C | 39mg | 43% |
| Calcium | 90mg | 9% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.