Forktionary

Winter Squash

Cucurbita Vegetable, Gourd

Winter Squash Vegetable, Gourd

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable, Gourd

The Forktionary Angle

"Unlocking the versatile sweetness and hearty texture of fall's favorite gourd for comforting meals."

Definition

Hard-shelled fruits harvested in autumn, known for their dense flesh and long storage life, used in both savory and sweet dishes.

Global Varieties Over 100
Storage Life (uncut) 2-6 months
Vitamin A Content (per 1 cup cooked butternut) 457% Daily Value

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Winter Squash are:

Sweet Earthy Nutty (varies by type)

Chef’s Secret

Roasting winter squash whole (pierced) before cutting makes it much easier to peel and scoop, intensifying its natural sweetness.

Best Substitutes

Pumpkin

in most recipes
Ratio 1:1

Sweet Potato

for texture/sweetness
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose squash heavy for its size with no soft spots or blemishes. A dull skin indicates ripeness.

Culinary Pairings

Sage thyme cinnamon nutmeg maple syrup bacon brown butter goat cheese

Recipes Using Winter Squash

Autumn Minestrone image
Main Dish Time To Make Preparation Onions

Autumn Minestrone

Warm up with this hearty and flavorful Autumn Minestrone Soup, a delicious Moosewood-inspired recipe perfect for chilly evenings. Bursting with seasonal vegetables like butternut squash, carrots, and kale, this comforting soup is easy to make and packed with wholesome goodness. Get ready for a taste of autumn in every bowl!

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Baked Butternut Squash Raisin And Pine Nut Lasagna image
Preparation European Equipment Cheese

Baked Butternut Squash Raisin And Pine Nut Lasagna

This creamy, dreamy lasagna is a delightful twist on a classic! Sweet butternut squash, plump raisins, and crunchy pine nuts create a surprisingly satisfying and flavorful combination. A healthier alternative to traditional red sauce lasagna, this recipe is perfect for Weight Watchers (approximately 7 points per serving) or anyone looking for a comforting, gourmet meal. The creamy cheese sauce and perfectly layered pasta create a dish that's both elegant and easy to make. Prepare for a taste sensation!

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Baked Winter Squash Au Gratin image 144
Vegetables Vegan 4 Hours Or Less Main Ingredient

Baked Winter Squash Au Gratin

Impress your guests with this surprisingly easy Baked Winter Squash Au Gratin! This recipe uses any winter squash you have on hand for a creamy, comforting dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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African Peanut And Squash Stew image
Healthy Winter Low Calorie Healthy

African Peanut And Squash Stew

A vibrant and flavorful vegan African Peanut & Squash Stew, bursting with protein and exotic spices! This hearty, satisfying stew is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it's guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich peanut sauce, tender squash, and delightful black-eyed peas!

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Argentina Style Beef Stew image
Occasion Winter Low Calorie Main Dish

Argentina Style Beef Stew

Experience the rich, hearty flavors of Argentina with this irresistible beef stew! Slow-cooked to perfection in a 6-quart slow cooker, this untried recipe from Better Homes and Gardens boasts tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a depth of flavor that will transport you to the heart of Argentina. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting family meal.

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