Butternut squash is technically a fruit, in that is has seeds. Butternut squash is particularly high in antioxidants, phytonutrients, fiber and vitamins A, B-complex and C. At 82 calories per cup, butternut squash is recommended to people trying to lose weight.

Many culinary uses

Butternut squash is used in both sweet and savory dishes. It can be roasted, steamed, mashed, pureed, used in soups, gratins, and in baked goods. Butternut squash recipes are often seasoned with nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon.

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How to cut and peel a butternut squash

Cutting and peeling a butternut squash can be a challenge. Butternut squash has a  hard skin and dense flesh that make them particularly difficult to cut. The trick is to poke holes all over the flesh with a fork and pop it in the microwave for 5 minutes. After microwaving, you will be able to easily slice through the flesh and remove the skin using a potato peeler.

Recipes that include butternut squash include:

• Kenyan massaged kale with butternut squash and apples
• Roasted butternut squash soup with lime and coconut
• Roasted butternut squash Ottolenghi
• Roasted butternut squash and cauliflower gratin