Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal but short on time? Look no further! This recipe showcases the magic of the microwave for creating a flavorful and nutritious butternut squash dish in minutes. Forget lengthy oven roasting; this quick method preserves the squash's natural sweetness and vibrant color, making it a perfect side dish or a base for countless other recipes. It's one of those easy recipes that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more healthy meals into your diet. Let's dive into this simple yet impressive recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 1.5 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
Instructions:
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Prep the Squash: Begin by thoroughly washing your butternut squash. Peeling it can be a little tricky, but a vegetable peeler makes the job much easier. Once peeled, cut the squash in half lengthwise, remove the seeds and stringy bits, and then cube it into roughly 1-inch pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
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Microwave Magic: In a large microwave-safe bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Ensure the squash is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
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Cooking Time: Microwave on high for 8-12 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave's power and the size of the squash cubes. Start with 8 minutes and check for doneness; add 2-minute intervals as needed. Overcooked squash will be mushy, so it's best to err on the side of slightly undercooked.
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Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot!). Fluff the squash with a fork and serve immediately as a side dish. Its natural sweetness pairs perfectly with roasted meats, poultry, or fish.
Tips for Microwave Butternut Squash Success:
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Even Cubing is Key: Consistent cube size ensures even cooking. Avoid very large pieces, as they may not cook through properly.
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Don't Overcrowd the Bowl: Leave some space between the squash cubes to allow for even steaming. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
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Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor. A dash of maple syrup or honey adds a touch of sweetness.
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Leftovers: Store leftover cooked butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's delicious cold or reheated.
Variations:
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Spicy Squash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
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Savory Squash: Toss the squash with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
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Garlic Butternut Squash: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the bowl before microwaving.
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Butternut Squash Soup: This cooked squash makes an excellent base for a quick and easy butternut squash soup! Simply blend it with vegetable broth and your favorite seasonings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a single serving from a medium butternut squash and may vary depending on the size of the squash and added ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
- Vitamin A: Excellent source
- Potassium: Good source
This microwave butternut squash recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a testament to how homemade cooking can be both delicious and efficient, even for those with busy schedules. Enjoy!