How to Cut Butternut Squash

To get to the delicious goodness of a squash, you first need to peel off the thick skin. To peel a butternut squash, lay the vegetable on its side on a cutting board. Use a large, heavy knife to cut off the top and bottom. Then cut the squash in half by cutting through the middle where the body narrows. Using a knife with ridges can help penetrate the skin so you can cut through it completely without the knife getting stuck. 

Then take one of the halves and start peeling the skin off by sliding the knife gently down the edge behind the skin, moving from top to bottom. Make sure you go deep enough to remove the skin in its entirety, but watch your fingers in the process.

As you peel it, continually rotate the squash until you’ve removed the skin on all sides. 

Once you’ve cut the squash in half, you can remove the seeds with a big spoon, applying some pressure as you scoop. Continue to scrape the inside until it is clean, like you would when carving a pumpkin. 

Most people cube butternut squash, although you can cut it in other shapes and sizes if you prefer. To cube the squash, take one of the squash halves and cut it in half again. Then halve it one more time, so there are now four equal pieces. Continue cutting vertical slices, depending on how large or small you want the cubes to be. Then cut the slices at a perpendicular angle to chop the slices into cubes.

There are many ways to cook butternut squash. If you want to eat the vegetable on its own, the easiest way is to place the cubed squash in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl and microwave it for 10 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender.

Butternut squash also tastes delicious in a variety of dishes, adding a slightly sweet creaminess that’s sure to please. There are many recipes for butternut squash, from soups, sides and pasta dishes to main course vegetarian meals.