Learn how to cut butternut squash into cubes, plus tips on peeling and seeding this fall and winter veggie! This post includes information on cutting squash safely, with or without the help of a microwave, and a step-by-step video.
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Are you intimidated by squash? I’ve totally been there! It can be discouraging and difficult to cut winter squash. And if you don’t have a plan of action, it might even be dangerous!
That’s why I’m coming at you today with this tutorial on how to cut butternut squash into cubes. You’ll learn the best way to slice squash into sections, remove the skin and seeds, and cut it into perfect cubes.
Be sure to check out the video (<2 minutes) in the recipe card and on the side or top of your screen, too! Conquer your fear of preparing butternut squash, and learn how to enjoy this delicious veggie in so many ways.
How to Peel, Seed, and Dice Butternut Squash
- Slice off the stem and bottom.
- Cut the squash in half at the base of the neck, right before it curves out.
- Remove the skin with a peeler.
- Scoop out the seeds.
- Cut the top in half, then cut each half into 1-inch strips.
- Stack a couple of the strips on top of each other, and cut those in half.
- Cut into cubes.
- Repeat with the bottom pieces.
Should you microwave squash before cutting it?
Even when you know how to cut butternut squash into cubes, it can still be difficult to physically cut. There’s no denying that squash has really firm skin!
If you have trouble cutting squash and/or don’t have a sharp knife, make several slits in the skin of the squash first. Then, place it in the microwave and cook on high for 2 to 3 minutes. This will help soften the squash and make it easier to peel and cut.
Be sure to make the slits in the skin or else you risk the squash blowing up your microwave. It may also be hot when you remove it from the microwave, so hold it with a towel or wait a few minutes before cutting.
Recommended Equipment
To cut squash safely and effectively, you will need a sharp knife, a cutting board that doesn’t slip, and a good vegetable peeler.
I use a Shun Cutlery chef’s knife, and it is my all time favorite kitchen tool. It’s incredibly sharp and really worth the investment. For cutting boards, I use these bamboo boards from Martha Stewart that have rubber stoppers on the bottom.
Finally, I love my Oxo Good Grips vegetable swivel peeler. A Y-peeler also works well for peeling squash, although I do not have this tool.
Ways to Use Butternut Squash Cubes
Now that you know how to cut butternut squash into cubes, let’s talk about cooking it! Some of my favorite recipes include the Roasted Cinnamon Butternut Squash Cubes, Vegan Butternut Squash and Pear Soup, and Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Brown Rice Risotto. For another tutorial on prepping this veggie, check out my post on How to Make Butternut Squash Puree.
I’d love to hear how you like this recipe! Rate/review using the stars on the recipe card or in the comments, and follow the Veg World on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Looking for something totally different? Browse the recipe library.
How to Cut Butternut Squash into Cubes
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Vegetable peeler
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash
Instructions
- Place the squash on a cutting board that doesn't slip, and use a sharp knife to slice off the stem and bottom.
- Cut the squash in half crosswise at the base of the neck, right before the bottom curves out.
- Cut the bottom of the squash in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds with a spoon.
- Slice the top of the squash in half lengthwise, then cut each half crosswise into 1-inch strips.
- Stack a couple of the strips in top of each other, and cut them in half.
- Dice the strips into 1-inch cubes. Repeat with the rest of the squash.
Video
Notes
- If you want to soften the squash before cutting it, make several small slits in the skin of the squash (this is very important, so the squash can release steam in the microwave). Then, place it in the microwave and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on high to soften.
- The squash will be hot when you take it out of the microwave, so use a towel of oven mitts to handle it.
Nutrition
Happy cooking! – Lizzie
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