Learn how to store butternut squash correctly to ensure that you get to enjoy its amazing flavor for as long as possible. Butternut squash is an incredibly versatile fruit that can be used in soups, pies, and side dishes. With just a few easy steps you can keep your butternut squash fresh for weeks!
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Butternut squash is a delicious and nutritious winter squash that can be incorporated into many recipes. It’s important to learn how to store butternut squash correctly so that it retains its nutritional value and flavor for as long as possible.
There are 16 common types of squash to choose from when preparing a recipe.
What Is Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a type of winter squash that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is native to North America and was introduced to Europe in the 1940s. Butternut squash has an oblong shape with smooth tan skin and bright orange flesh inside. The seeds are also edible and can be roasted for a tasty snack.
Types of Butternut Squash
There are several different types of butternut squash available for purchase. Each type has its own unique flavor, texture, and characteristics.
One of the most common types of butternut squash is the Waltham Butternut. This variety is known for its smooth skin and long neck, making it easy to peel and prepare. It has a sweet flavor with hints of nuttiness and pairs well with savory spices like cinnamon, cumin, and paprika.
Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is packed with vitamins and nutrients. It’s an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy eyesight and supporting immune function. Butternut squash also contains high levels of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, all of which can help keep you feeling great throughout the day.
How to Store Butternut Squash
STEP 1: CUT AND PLACE
Cut the squash into cubes and place the cubes into a glass container that has an air-tight lid.
STEP 2: POUR
Pour about 1/4 inch of cold water onto the bottom of the container. This will help prevent the squash from drying out while stored. Try not to put too much water as it could make the squash become soggy.
STEP 3: WET PAPER TOWELS
Take 1-2 paper towels and place them under water to make them wet. Then, lay them on top of the cubes covering as much as you can.
STEP 4: STORE
Place the lid onto the container and store it in the fridge. They will be good for 5-7 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can eat the skin, but the taste and texture can vary amongst squashes.
You can tell if a whole, uncut butternut squash is bad if squishy spots appear to penetrate through the outer layer of the squash and if it doesn’t smell good.
Squash stored at refrigeration temperatures of 41 °F should have a shelf life of 5-7 days.
Expert Tips for How to Store Butternut Squash
- Uncut Squash Lasts Longer: If you don’t have to use your butternut squash right away, and it’s whole and uncut, you can store it for 1-3 months at room temperature away from sunlight.
- Save the Seeds: When cutting the butternut squash, hold onto the seeds to use them for future recipes like roasted pumpkin seeds.
- Recommended Tools & Equipment:
- Chef’s Knife
- Air-Tight Glass Container
- Cutting Board
More Ingredient Tutorials
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Butternut Squash Recipes to Try
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How to Store Butternut Squash
Equipment
- 1 Air-Tight Glass Container
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
Instructions
- Cut the squash into cubes and place the cubes into a glass container that has an air-tight lid.
- Pour about 1/4 inch of cold water onto the bottom of the container. This will help prevent the squash from drying out while stored. Try not to put too much water as it could make the squash become soggy.
- Take 1-2 paper towels and place them under water to make them wet. Then, lay them on top of the cubes covering as much as you can.
- Place the lid onto the container and store it in the fridge. They will be good for 5-7 days.
Expert Tips
- Uncut Squash Lasts Longer: If you don’t have to use your butternut squash right away, and it’s whole and uncut, you can store it for 1-3 months at room temperature away from sunlight.
- Save the Seeds: When cutting the butternut squash, hold onto the seeds to use them for future recipes like roasted pumpkin seeds.
