Butternut squash

Definition

Butternut squash is a long, orange-fleshed winter squash with a thin, edible peel. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and can be prepared in a variety of ways, including roasting and steaming. The seeds of the squash can be roasted as one would roast pumpkin seeds.

Health considerations

Butternut squash is on average 12% carbohydrate, 2% fiber, 1% protein, and 0.1% fat. It is a rich source of vitamin A, particularly beta-carotene, as well as B vitamins, vitamins C and E, magnesium, potassium and other vitamins and minerals. Peeling raw butternut squash can temporarily cause red, dry, itching skin.

May be found in

Soups, sauces, ravioli, muffins, quickbreads, fresh and whole, roasted and pureed in cans, in canned pumpkin puree, prepared dishes.

References

Backyard Gardening

Alternative Spellings and Names

Butternut pumpkin, Curcubita moschata