2 ways to Microwave Butternut Squash: Quick, Easy, and Delicious!
Butternut squash, together with sweet potato have become an almost daily ingredient in our kitchen. For years now, ever since we learnt about and followed the Paleo diet for a little while, we have replaced white potatoes, rice and other carb heavy side dishes with either sweet potato, butternut or spaghetti squash.
And now that I am on the following the diet part of the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), I eat even more butternut squash and sweet potato.
What I love about butternut squash is that it keeps so long. And it is super easy to prepare! This way I don’t have to always plan ahead. And one less thing to plan, is one less thing to worry about!
This guide will show you how you can microwave butternut squash either in halves, in slices or cubes, to help make meal prep a little bit easier!
If you are interested in learning how to microwave sweet potato or spaghetti squash, check out my other posts for some guides.
The Benefits Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a winter squash that is super versatile! It can be used in sweet and savory dishes.
These squash are rich in nutrients, and low in calories. It is an all round healthy
Nutritional
- Vitamins and minerals: Butternut squash is rich in Vitamin A and C. It is also a good source of vitamin E, B1, B3, B6 and B9. And when it comes to minerals, butternut squash is also a good source of magnesium, potassium and manganese.
- Antioxidants: Butternut squash is rich in antioxidants that help fight cell damage caused by free radicals.
- Fiber: Butternut squash are a great source of insoluble and soluble fiber, making it an excellent side dish for boosting your fiber intake.
Butternut Squash is allowed on the AIP Diet (Autoimmune Protocol), Paleo Diet and Whole30
Butternut squash ticks all the right boxes! That’s why it is allowed on the AIP diet. It is also compatible with Paleo and Whole30. You really cannot go wrong with this squash!
It is an easy to use vegetable. Quick to prepare and can be used with so many recipes!
Why Microwave Butternut Squash?
Microwaving butternut squash is quick, easy, and efficient. Roasting or boiling takes up so much more time take, and with everything demanding our time these days, saving a few minutes here and there can make all the difference!
From roasting for an hour down to under 10 minutes in the microwave, that’s a big time save! Microwaving butternut squash keeps them moist and just as delicious.
Perfect for busy people or anyone who wants a delicious meal with minimal effort. Plus I am grateful for one less thing I need to plan ahead and coordinate timing for.
Tip: the easy way to cut Butternut Squash
To cut a slice off a the butternut squash, lie the butternut squash on a cutting board. Place the knife perpendicular to the squash and start the cut. Instead of trying to force the knife through the squash, hold the knife steady and roll the butternut squash back and forth. By applying pressure to the knife, it will more easily slide through the butternut squash. Be sure to keep your fingers out the way! Smooth edged knives work better than serrated or bread knives.
How to Microwave Butternut Squash Halves
If you really want to, you could probably cook it whole, but I recommend cutting at least in half.
We usually cook for two, so we use half a butternut squash at a time, and cut that into quarters. We usually leave the skin on, as it is so easy to remove the flesh once it is cooked.
Microwave Butternut Squash in Halves or Quarters
Equipment
- cutting board
- large, sharp kitchen knife
- tablespoon
- microwave safe plate
- microwave
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash
Instructions
- Cut in halfCarefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise. If you don’t want to cook the entire squash, cut off what you want to prepare and refrigerate the rest.
- Peeling is optionalIf you like, you can peel the butternut squash. But once it is cooked, the flesh scrapes off the skin fairly easily. So we don't worry about this step.
- Remove seedsScoop out the seeds using a tablespoon.
- MicrowavePlace the halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high for about 8-10 minutes.
- Check for DonenessUse a fork or sharp knife to check if the butternut squash is soft in the center. If the fork slides in easily, the butternut squash is done. If it is still firm in the center, microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes. But don not over microwave it as that will cause the butternut squash to dry out where it touches the plate.
- Ready to ServeLet it cool slightly, and then use it as intended. Either by scooping out the flesh or cut it into cubes.
Notes
How to Microwave Butternut Squash Cubes or Slices
Sometimes, when we want to speed up food prep, we cut up a butternut squash and pre cook it in the microwave.
Sometimes we only cook it half way, so that the roasting does not take as long. Or we microwave the butternut squash and then mash it for a sweeter side dish.
Microwave Butternut Squash Cubes or Slices
Equipment
- large, sharp kitchen knife
- cutting board
- peeler
- microwave safe plate, bowl or CorningWare. Cover is optional
- microwave
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash
Instructions
- Peel and slice or cubePeel the squash and cut it into slices, and then into cubes. You can also microwave the slices, and skip the cubing process.
- Remove seedsWhen you get to the bulbous part of the squash, scoop out the seeds using a tablespoon.
- MicrowavePlace the cubes or slices in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high for about 6-8 minutes.
- Check for DonenessUse a fork to check if the butternut squash is soft. Test a few cubes, and if you have some larger ones, definitely check them too. If the cubes still feel a bit firm, microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes. Careful, the bowl will be hot!
- Mash or serve as isOnce cooked, you can serve the butternut squash immediately. Or let it cool a little bit before mashing it.
Notes
Storage Guidelines
To store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 -4 days.
To freeze: Place cooked and cooled butternut squash in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating: Microwave leftovers in 30-second increments until warm or heat them in a preheated oven or air fryer.
