Growing up, my mother always cooked traditional recipes that had been passed down through generations. But as I entered the world of adulthood and began experimenting in the kitchen myself, I realized that there were so many quicker and easier ways to create delicious meals. One of my favorite discoveries has been learning how to cook butternut squash in the microwave. Not only does it save me time, but it also produces perfectly tender and flavorful squash every time. In this blog post, I will share with you my quick and easy guide on how long to microwave butternut squash.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s first ensure that we have all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
Ingredients:
Equipment:
Preparing the Butternut Squash
The first step in this quick guide is to prepare the butternut squash for cooking. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Wash the Squash
Begin by rinsing the butternut squash under cold water. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may be present on the surface.
Step 2: Cut off the Ends
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off both ends of the squash. This will create a stable base for the squash to rest on while cutting.
Step 3: Peel the Squash
Next, use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the skin from the butternut squash. Start at the top and work your way down, removing all of the outer skin.
Step 4: Cut in Half
Once the squash is peeled, carefully cut it in half lengthwise. This can be a bit tricky, as the squash is quite firm. Take your time and use a steady hand to ensure an even cut.
Step 5: Scoop out the Seeds
Use a spoon or a fork to scrape out the seeds and stringy flesh from each half of the squash. Discard the seeds and flesh, or save them to roast later for a tasty snack.
Microwaving the Butternut Squash
Now that the butternut squash is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the microwave. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked squash:
Step 1: Place the Squash in a Microwave-safe Dish
Place the two halves of the butternut squash in a microwave-safe dish, cut side down. This will help the squash cook evenly and prevent it from drying out.
Step 2: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil over the cut side of each butternut squash half. This will add flavor and help keep the squash moist during cooking.
Step 3: Season with Salt and Pepper
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the olive oil-coated squash halves. The amount of salt and pepper you use will depend on your personal preferences, so feel free to adjust accordingly.
Step 4: Cover and Microwave
Cover the microwave-safe dish with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help trap the steam and aid in the cooking process.
Step 5: Cook in the Microwave
Place the dish with the butternut squash in the microwave and cook on high heat for approximately 10-12 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and power of your microwave, so keep an eye on the squash as it cooks.
Checking for Doneness
After the initial cooking time, it’s important to check the squash for doneness. Here’s how you can tell if it’s cooked through:
Serving and Enjoying Butternut Squash
Once the butternut squash is cooked to perfection, remove it from the microwave and allow it to cool slightly. Then, simply scoop out the flesh from each half and serve it as a side dish or incorporate it into your favorite recipes. Butternut squash is incredibly versatile and can be used in soups, stews, salads, or even as a topping for pizzas.
So, the next time you’re craving a delicious and nutritious meal but don’t have the time to spend hours in the kitchen, remember this quick guide on how long to microwave butternut squash. With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can have a flavorful and tender dish that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!