As fantastic as the farmer’s market is during the dog days of summer, I think it gets even better in the autumn. The broccoli is sweet and delicious. Apples abound. And cold weather delights like Brussels sprouts, leeks, sturdy late season greens, and hearty root vegetables are in their prime.
Of course, one of my very favorite autumn vegetables is the ubiquitous winter squash. Nutty, sweet, and versatile, winter squash come in myriad shapes — round and elongated, scalloped and pear-shaped — with flesh that ranges from sweet and nutty to mild and slightly earthy.
I’m partial to kombucha squash, which is so deliciously sweet and smooth that it needs little more than a basic preparation to be positively delicious. But, I also love the tender nuttiness of acorn squash… and the sweet versatility of the easy to find butternut squash. And who can resist the allure of a Thanksgiving pumpkin pie?
In addition to being delicious, winter squash packs quite the nutritional punch. An excellent source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, squash is also a good source for potassium, complex carbohydrates, and fiber.
So, while everyone else is carving up their pumpkins for the Halloween weekend, why not take the time to check out some of the other members of the squash family?
Here are five ways to enjoy the winter squash harvest.
- Turn on that oven! Roasted squash is delicious – and it makes a great addition to pasta sauces, pizza, or even chili. To roast squash, peel the squash and remove the seeds. Slice the squash into 1 inch cubes, toss with olive oil, and roast in a 400 degree oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Try seasoning the squash cubes before roasting for a delicious variation. Some of my favorite seasonings include curry powder, ancho chile powder, and cinnamon.
- Spice it up! Butternut squash is a delicious addition to any number of ethnic dishes. Try chile-roasted squash as a filling for enchiladas. Or make delicious Thai dishes like Butternut Squash and Noodles with Coconut, Lime and Cilantro Sauce
- Make Ravioli! If you have some extra roasted squash on hand, all you need is a package of won-ton wrappers to make a fabulous dinner. Try mashing the squash and mixing it with a bit of goat cheese for an extra special weeknight dinner. Making Ravioli with Wonton Wrappers
- Try your hand at risotto! This classic Italian dish isn’t nearly as difficult as some would have you believe. A good spoon, some delicious stock, and about 45 minutes time, and you’ve got it made. Try deliciously adventurous combinations like Butternut Squash, Rosemary, and Blue Cheese Risotto
- Make soup! Butternut squash bisque is an autumn classic. Simply roast the squash and puree it with some chicken stock for a quick and easy version. Or try my favorite Butternut squash soup with beer & cheese – perfect fare for that weekend football get-together.
