She Strengthens

The Underrated Superstar of Fall Ingredients: Butternut Squash

Butternut squash often takes a backseat to its more popular cousin, pumpkin. But it’s time to give this versatile and nutritious ingredient the recognition it deserves. With its unique shape and rich, buttery flavor, butternut squash is a game-changer in the kitchen.

Breakfast Recipes to Start Your Day Off Right

1. Butternut Squash Waffles: Add some excitement to your morning routine with these golden waffles packed with fiber and flavor.
2. Butternut Squash Noodle Hash: A gluten-free breakfast masterpiece that will make you feel like you’re eating pasta for breakfast, minus the carb load.
3. Kale and Butternut Squash Breakfast Bowls: A nutrient-rich breakfast bowl that’s lower in carbs than sweet potatoes and pairs perfectly with eggs.
4. Caramelized Onion Butternut Squash Crustless Quiche: A quiche that’s crust-free, but full of flavor and texture, thanks to the addition of butternut squash.
5. Butternut Squash Maple Oat Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes with a twist – the addition of butternut squash puree adds natural sweetness and moisture.
6. Butternut Squash Toast with Fried Eggs: A breakfast spread that’s both healthy and delicious, with the subtle sweetness of butternut squash balanced by the savory flavor of fried eggs.
7. Butternut Squash and Banana Oatmeal: A breakfast bowl that’s both comforting and nutritious, with the added bonus of vitamins and beta-carotene from the squash.

Main Course Recipes to Wow Your Guests

1. One-Pan Tempeh Butternut Squash Bake: A flavorful and nutritious vegan dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
2. Easy Tuna Bake with Butternut Squash, Spinach, and Feta: A surprising combination of flavors that will become a new favorite.
3. Butternut Squash Tacos: A vegetarian taco recipe that’s both flavorful and filling, with the added bonus of cumin-dusted butternut squash.
4. Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet: A one-skillet meal that’s both easy to make and packed with nutrients.
5. Curried Beef and Butternut Squash Stuffed Peppers: A twist on a classic recipe, with the added bonus of butternut squash puree replacing half the meat.

Salads and Sides to Round Out Your Meal

1. Butternut Squash and White Bean Dip: A creamy dip that’s both healthy and delicious, perfect for a party appetizer or snack.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash, Red Onion, Goat Cheese, and Pecan Salad: A seasonal salad that’s both colorful and flavorful, with the added bonus of roasted butternut squash.
3. Roasted Butternut Squash and Cauliflower with Tahini: A warm side dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, with the added bonus of tahini dressing.
4. Baked Butternut Squash Fries: A tasty side dish that’s both crispy and sweet, with the added bonus of orange juice and zest.

Desserts to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

1. Butternut Squash Pie: A seasonal pie that’s both delicious and nutritious, with the added bonus of butternut squash puree replacing pumpkin.
2. Vegan Butternut Squash and Orange Cake: A moist and flavorful cake that’s both vegan and wheat-free, with the added bonus of orange-almond “cream” in the middle.
3. Butternut Squash Tart with Gingersnap Crust and Maple Coconut Whipped Cream: A decadent dessert that’s both dairy-free and delicious, with the added bonus of homemade crust and whipped cream.
4. Vegan Gluten-Free Apple Crisp with Butternut Squash: A warm and comforting dessert that’s both healthy and delicious, with the added bonus of butternut squash puree adding natural sweetness.

In conclusion, butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dessert. With its rich flavor and numerous health benefits, it’s time to give this underrated superstar the recognition it deserves.