Flavors of Fall: Butternut and Spaghetti Squash

As September arrives, the crisp air and vibrant hues of fall are just around the corner. With the changing season comes a bounty of delicious flavors that we all look forward to. Among the seasonal stars are two of our favorites: butternut squash and spaghetti squash. Both are versatile, delicious, and perfect for creating comforting dishes as the weather cools down. Let’s explore three different ways to prepare each of these squashes to bring the warmth and flavor of fall to your table.

Butternut Squash: Sweet, Nutty, and Velvety

Butternut squash is a fall staple, known for its creamy texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor. Here are three ways to enjoy this delicious squash:

Roasted Butternut Squash

   - Roasting butternut squash is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy its natural sweetness. Simply peel, seed, and cube the squash, then toss it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, like rosemary or thyme. Roast it in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. The result? Beautifully caramelized cubes that are slightly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—perfect as a side dish or tossed into a salad.

Butternut Squash Soup

   - For a warm and comforting meal, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot, then add peeled and cubed squash, broth, and your favorite fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Simmer until the squash is tender, then blend until smooth. This soup is creamy, rich, and full of autumnal flavors—ideal for a cozy evening at home.

Mashed Butternut Squash

   - Looking for a delicious alternative to mashed potatoes? Try mashed butternut squash! Boil or steam peeled and cubed squash until tender, then mash it with butter, a bit of cream or milk, salt, and pepper. You can also add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a sweet twist. The result is a velvety, smooth side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or fall vegetables.

Spaghetti Squash: Light, Versatile, and Fun

Spaghetti squash is a wonderful, low-carb alternative to pasta, with its unique stringy texture that resembles spaghetti when cooked. Here are three different ways to prepare it:

Roasted Spaghetti Squash

   - Roasting is the most popular method for cooking spaghetti squash. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and brush the inside with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast at 375°F for 35-40 minutes. Once cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. You’ll get tender, slightly caramelized strands that can be topped with your favorite pasta sauce or simply tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

Microwaved Spaghetti Squash

   - Short on time? The microwave is a quick and easy way to cook spaghetti squash. Pierce the squash all over with a fork, microwave it for 5-8 minutes to soften, then cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with a bit of water, and microwave for another 8-10 minutes until tender. Use a fork to shred the flesh into strands, and you have a fast, healthy meal base ready to go!

Spaghetti Squash Stir-Fry

   - Give your spaghetti squash a flavorful twist with a stir-fry! After roasting or microwaving the squash, scrape out the strands and set them aside. In a skillet, heat some oil and stir-fry garlic, ginger, and your choice of vegetables (like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli). Add the spaghetti squash strands and a stir-fry sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of chili flakes. Toss to combine for a tasty, veggie-packed dish that’s perfect for a light, nutritious meal.

Celebrate Fall with Squash

As we transition into fall, there’s no better time to embrace the comforting flavors of the season. Butternut and spaghetti squash are two versatile and delicious options that can be prepared in a variety of ways, from simple roasts to hearty soups and creative stir-fries. Head to our Market and pick up these seasonal favorites to start creating your own fall-inspired dishes at home. Happy cooking!