1-2-3 Easy Butternut Squash

If peeling and cutting a butternut squash intimidates you, 

try this method that does not require peeling !

              

Two months ago, I would have said, "I don't cook butternut squash!" But not any more!!  

Even though I like all vegetables, I had many good reasons why I would avoid making and eating butternut squash. 

Reason # 1.   too hard to peel
Reason # 2.   too hard to cut
Reason # 3.   too fattening 

                        
Well, my excuses are over. I now buy and make butternut squash for three very good new reasons.

Reason # 1. I make it without peeling it
Reason # 2. I make it without cutting it
Reason # 3. It is a zero point vegetable on WW

I have always loved the sweet flavor of butternut squash.  

It is delicious in the fall when winter squashes are prolific at local farms. 

Butternut squash is also healthy. It is loaded with fiber, beta carotene which is good for the eyes, and other healthy antioxidants that boost the immune system. It is a great addition to a gluten free healthy diet!

How do I cook it? I have two methods: Oven or Instant Pot

Oven Method: 

Preheat oven to 450 degrees

Place a whole unpeeled butternut squash(wash well) on a parchment covered cookie sheet, (no need to pierce)

Bake it until the squash until it becomes tender (about 45-1 hour for a med-large squash). 

Remove from the oven, allow to cool a little, then carefully cut in half (be careful of any steam) and remove seeds with a spoon. 

Your baked squash will be sweet, soft, and delicious.

I love this method of baking butternut squash (or acorn squash). It produces a sweet tender delicious squash.

Instant Pot Method: 

I also like to cook a butternut squash in the Instant Pot. For this method you need to cut the squash in half in the middle at its softest area if the squash is long. Otherwise put it in the IP whole. 

Place in the IP and set to pressure cook. click here for full directions.

 

Check out the new wonderful Instant Pots on Amazon (affiliate link)

 

Try my anti-inflammatory salad (link to recipe) with butternut squash 

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