Better Butternut Squash Recipes

By , SparkPeople Blogger
Butternut squash is my favorite fall vegetable. I tell my kids that it's like vegetable candy, because roasting brings out its natural sweetness and reduces the need for sugar in our favorite fall deserts.
 
Consuming butternut squash adds fiber, potassium, magnesium, vitamins A and C to your diet. Here's an easy way to pick the perfect one at most stores. For maximum efficiency, roast extra squashes and freeze the extra flesh for later use. If you're short on time, just pick up some pre-cut Butternut Squash in the freezer section at your market. Another fun tip is to grind the seeds in a coffee or spice grinder and use as a natural thickening agent in soups and stews. 
 
Celebrate fall with these butternut squash recipes. 
 


Roasted Squash Soup (Video Recipe)
 
This soup is a perfect start to a meal or a great option for a healthy lunch.

Calories: 128.6   fat: 2.8 g   protein: 3.7 g   carbs: 25.6 g   fiber: 6.2 g
 


Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
 
Butternut squash helps slim down this macaroni and cheese. You can't taste it, and it boosts the nutritional value of the dish!
 
Calories: 230   fat: 4.3 g   protein: 13.2 g   carbs: 35.8 g   fiber: 5.2 g




Turkey & Butternut Squash Risotto
 
Enjoy a complete meal in one dish. This is a great dish to use those Thanksgiving Day leftovers.
 
Calories: 401.3   fat: 11.4 g   protein: 22.1 g   carbs: 55.2 g   fiber: 4.5 g
 


Tofu-Squash Stew
 
This hearty stew is a great mix of fall flavors and perfect for a meatless meal. It's also very high in fiber, and the starchy butternut squash makes this a one-pot meal--no need for a side dish. 
 
Calories: 296   fat: 15.5 g   protein: 16.1 g   carbs: 30.1 g   fiber: 9.2 g
 


Quinoa with Butternut Squash
 
This recipe has crunch thanks to the pumpkin seeds, tons of antioxidants from the butternut squash, fiber and protein from the quinoa.
 
Calories: 367   fat: 10.1 g   protein: 10.1 g   carbs: 60.7 g   fiber: 5.4 g
 


Spiced Butternut Squash Muffins
 
These muffins are a healthy treat to either start or end your day.
 
Calories: 91.9   fat: 1.9 g   protein: 3.2 g   carbs: 16.1 g   fiber: 2.7 g
 


Curried Lentil and Butternut Squash Salad
 
Lentils are a hearty and fiber-rich protein source. This recipe is a great option for a meat-free meal.
 
Calories: 148.4   fat: 6.5 g   protein: 5.5 g   carbs: 20.2 g   fiber: 6.8 g
 


Roasted Red Pepper and Butternut Squash Dip
 
Serve this dip a fall gathering or holiday celebration.
 
Calories: 33.4   fat: 0.5 g   protein: 0.9 g   carbs: 7.4 g   fiber: 0.4 g
 
 

Butternut Squash Goulash with Brown Rice
 
This recipe is perfect to serve on a cold winter’s night.
 
Calories: 209.9   fat: 4.7 g   protein: 7 g   carbs: 37.2 g   fiber: 4.6 g
 


Butternut Squash Gnocchi
 
Butternut squash adds flavor and depth to the traditional gnocchi dish.
 
Calories: 206.9   fat: 1.6 g   protein: 7.2 g   carbs: 43.3 g   fiber: 6.3 g

What is your favorite butternut squash recipe? Which of these will you try? 

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