There’s a wonderland of winter squash out there, and it turns out the good eating goes way beyond pumpkin pie. Here are the best winter squash recipes to get you through the season, from breakfast to dessert!
did you know? all winter squash is edible!
Winter squash comes in a rainbow of colors and just as many fantastical shapes. They’re not just pretty to look at – there’s a world of tasty flavors under those rough skins, just waiting to be roasted and turned into soups and pies. Winter squashes are nutritional powerhouses, too. They’re low in calories and rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene, they promote eye health and boost the immune system (which we could all use right now!)
the only winter squash you can’t eat?
The only exceptions are shellacked ornamental gourds. And even they are edible (before they’re lacquered!) they don’t taste as good as other varieties which is why they’re used decoratively.
winter squash are interchangeable in recipes
- You can substitute one for another in any classic butternut or pumpkin recipe…think turban squash pie, or blue hubbard soup and get creative! Whether you slice it up or puree it, different varieties of squash will bring new life to your old standard recipes.
winter squash seeds are healthy and delicious, don’t toss them
- Rinse and remove any stringy stuff and let them dry. Toss with a little olive or coconut oil and season with your favorite spices (they can be sweet or savory.) Spread out in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a 325F oven for about 15-20 minutes, giving them a stir once or twice during the cooking. When you hear them start to pop, they’re done.
hardy squash will last for months in a cool dark place
- Start with firm, unblemished produce. Large, thick skinned squash will last many months at 50F (a cool basement is perfect) so buy them now when you see them, and enjoy them all winter long.
my favorite winter squash recipes
Here’s a fun collection of recipes to inspire you this fall and winter. If you want some basic information on how to cook the different varieties of squash, check out my How to Cook Any Type Of Winter Squash post.
These all look amazing! But our favorite one is your Pumpkin Crumb Cake!!
Thanks so much for including my pumpkin rolls Sue! I absolutely love this collection of recipes, I’ve never seen so many beautiful photos in one place!
Those pumpkin rolls are incredible, Emily 🙂
I love squash and live next to The Common Market in Frederick, MD. I’m positive they have all of the various squash in their store. And I intend to try every one of your recipes. Can’t wait. Thank you
What a great collection of recipes. I can’t wait to try some of them. Pinned!
These are all just gorgeous and I can’t help staring at all the fall deliciousness!
Thanks Chris!
What a wonderful round up! I’m not sure what to make first! I never know what to do with winter squash…thanks for the post!
I got so ‘into’ winter squash while I was curating this round up that I just warned my husband to expect LOTS of it on the dinner table this week!
This is one gorgeous roundup! I want to try them all 🙂
Thanks for visiting Tricia ~ have a fabulous Sunday 🙂
Great round-up Sue and thanks so much for including my butternut squash 🙂 I could eat my weight in squash, so loving all this inspiration!
Your hasselbacks are awesome Jennifer <3