What is winter squash?

Winter squash is a type of hard-skinned squash that is harvested in the fall and can be stored for long periods of time, typically several months. Examples include acorn, butternut, and spaghetti squash. They are usually cooked before eating, and can be roasted, baked, or used in soups and stews. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly beta-carotene and potassium.

How is winter squash cooked?

There are several ways to cook winter squash:

• Roasting: Cut the squash into cubes or slices, toss with oil, and roast in the oven at 375°F for about 30-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
• Baking: Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for about 40-60 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
• Microwaving: Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and place the halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish. Add a few tablespoons of water, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave on high for about 8-12 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
• Boiling or steaming: Cut the squash into cubes or slices and boil or steam for about 10-15 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.

Once cooked, the squash can be mashed, pureed, added to soups and stews, used as a side dish or in pies, breads, and even as a pizza topping.

What are some different varieties of winter squash?

There are many different varieties of winter squash, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some popular varieties include:

• Acorn squash: This small, greenish-yellow squash has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It can be roasted, baked, or stuffed and is often used in soups and stews.
• Butternut squash: This tan-colored squash has a sweet, nutty flavor and smooth, creamy texture. It is often used in soups, stews, and purees.
• Spaghetti squash: This yellow squash has a mild flavor and a unique spaghetti-like texture when cooked. The flesh separates into spaghetti-like strands when cooked and can be used as a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to pasta.
• Delicata squash: This small, oblong squash has a sweet, creamy flesh and a delicate skin that is edible when cooked. It’s great roasted or sautéed and also can be used in pies and breads.
• Kabocha squash: This Japanese squash is green on the outside and orange on the inside. It has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor, and can be roasted, mashed, or pureed.
• Carnival Squash: A crossbreed of acorn and sweet dumpling squash, carnival squash has a sweet, nutty flavor, and a smooth texture. It can be roasted, mashed, or pureed and also can be stuffed.

These are just a few examples, there are many other varieties available depending on your region. Experiment with different types to find which one you like best!

What are some dishes made with winter squash?

Winter squash is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Some popular dishes made with winter squash include:

• Roasted Winter Squash: Cut the squash into cubes or slices, toss with oil and spices, and roast in the oven for a sweet and savory side dish.
• Winter Squash Soup: Puree cooked winter squash with broth, cream, and spices for a comforting and warming soup.
• Stuffed Winter Squash: Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and stuff with a mixture of rice, meat, or vegetables. Bake in the oven for a hearty and satisfying main dish.
• Winter Squash Risotto: Cook Arborio rice with winter squash, onions, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy and delicious risotto.
• Winter Squash Curry: Cook winter squash with curry paste, coconut milk, and vegetables for a flavorful and comforting curry.
• Winter Squash Pie: Mix cooked and mashed winter squash with sugar, eggs, and spices and bake in a pie crust for a sweet and delicious dessert.
• Winter Squash Gnocchi: Mix cooked and mashed winter squash with flour and eggs to make homemade gnocchi and serve with your favorite sauce.
• Winter Squash Gratin: Layer slices of winter squash with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake in the oven for a savory and comforting gratin.

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Selected Recipes

What will you make with tempeh, rice, and squash?

Roast/Bake • Tempeh • Rice • Oregano • Nuts • Squash


• This recipe for Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice and Tempeh doesn't actually call for nuts, but it does call for tahini, and tahini comes from sesame seeds, so that works for me.