Are you a fan of butternut squash? Do you find yourself struggling to cook it quickly and deliciously? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that use the humble microwave to bring out the best in this tasty winter vegetable. From soups and salads to risottos and tarts, these quick and easy microwaving butternut squash recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a healthy lunch option or a home cook seeking inspiration for a family dinner, we’ve got you covered. So grab your microwave and get ready to unleash the flavor of this amazing vegetable!
Stay tuned for the first 10 recipes…
Microwaved Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Honey
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, where the natural sweetness of butternut squash pairs perfectly with the warmth of cinnamon and the richness of honey. It’s an easy and quick way to enjoy roasted butternut squash without heating up your oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel the butternut squash and cut it into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the squash cubes, honey, and cinnamon. Mix well until the squash is evenly coated.
3. Microwave on high for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from the microwave and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Herb Microwaved Butternut Squash
This recipe yields a flavorful and tender butternut squash dish with the perfect balance of garlic, herbs, and sweetness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pierce the squash multiple times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the garlic-herb mixture all over the squash, making sure to cover it evenly.
4. Place the squash in the microwave and cook on high for 15 minutes.
5. Flip the squash and continue microwaving for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Let the squash cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-27 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe is a perfect solution for a chilly evening when you need a warm, comforting bowl of soup in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and 10 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously creamy butternut squash soup from the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: nutmeg or cinnamon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place the squash halves on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up.
3. Dot the top of each squash half with butter and sprinkle with chopped onion.
4. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then flip the squash over and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Scoop the cooked squash flesh into a blender or food processor.
6. Add broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper; blend until smooth.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Maple Glazed Microwaved Butternut Squash
Sweet and savory, this Maple Glazed Microwaved Butternut Squash recipe is a deliciously easy side dish or snack. With just a few ingredients and minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a tasty treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash cut-side up on a microwave-safe dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Brush the glaze all over the squash, making sure to get it into the crevices.
6. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
7. Microwave for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s power level and the size of your squash. Check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily. Let cool slightly before serving.
Microwaved Butternut Squash and Kale Salad
This microwaved butternut squash and kale salad is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the flavors of winter. With minimal prep time and cooking, you can have a healthy and satisfying side dish or light lunch ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave to 3 minutes.
2. Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces.
3. Place the squash cubes in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, wash and chop the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash, chopped kale, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
6. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Spicy Microwaved Butternut Squash Wedges
A quick and delicious twist on traditional roasted squash, these spicy wedges are perfect for a weeknight dinner or snack. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of butternut squash in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash into 8-10 wedges, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the squash wedges and toss until evenly coated.
4. Place the wedges on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer, leaving some space between each wedge.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash Mash
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy twist on traditional mashed squash. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a tasty side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place the squash halves on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up.
3. Cook on high for 12-15 minutes, flipping the squash halfway through.
4. Remove from the microwave and let cool slightly.
5. Mash the squash with butter, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
6. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half and mash until combined.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash with Parmesan
Simplify your holiday cooking with this easy and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick side dish or as a topping for pasta or pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Place the cubed squash in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
3. Microwave on high for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove from the microwave and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash Risotto
This recipe transforms butternut squash into a creamy and comforting risotto, perfect for a weeknight dinner. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat microwave to high.
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and remove seeds. Place on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up.
3. Microwave the squash for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine vegetable broth, Arborio rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Microwave the risotto mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute, until creamy and cooked through.
6. Once the squash is done, scoop out the flesh and add it to the risotto. Stir well.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash and Quinoa Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl that’s ready in under 15 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish, cut side up.
3. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Meanwhile, cook the quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
5. Once the squash and quinoa are cooked, combine them in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash with Brown Butter
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or special occasions. Microwaving the butternut squash reduces cooking time, while the brown butter adds a rich and nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pierce the squash multiple times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
2. Cook the squash in the microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove the squash from the microwave and let it cool slightly.
4. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
5. Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Slice the cooled squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
7. Drizzle the brown butter over the squash and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash Tacos
Transform traditional tacos with the warm, comforting flavor of roasted butternut squash. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a unique lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Peel the butternut squash and place it in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the squash from the microwave and stir in diced onion and minced garlic.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the roasted squash mixture onto a warmed tortilla, and add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry
This recipe is a perfect blend of comfort food and convenience, ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this curry is packed with the flavors of butternut squash, chickpeas, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups cooked)
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butternut squash, chickpeas, olive oil, onion, garlic, curry powder, and cumin.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute, until the squash is tender.
3. Add water to the bowl and stir well.
4. Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash with Sage
Quickly cook butternut squash in the microwave to bring out its natural sweetness, infused with the earthy flavor of sage. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight side dish or as a base for fall-inspired recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Pierce the squash multiple times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
2. Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish, cut-side up.
3. Dot the top of the squash with butter, then sprinkle with chopped sage leaves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Microwave on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash and Black Bean Chili
In just a few minutes, you can have a warm and comforting bowl of chili that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the earthy flavor of black beans and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, or diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Peel the butternut squash and dice it into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the squash, black beans, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes until the squash is tender.
4. Add the vegetable broth and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, or diced avocado.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash with Cranberries
This sweet and savory side dish is perfect for the fall season. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup cranberries
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves in a microwave-safe dish, cut side up.
4. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the cranberry mixture over the squash.
6. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
7. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping the squash halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Tart
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat microwave to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place squash on a microwave-safe plate, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Microwave for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
5. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Arrange roasted squash in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
7. Crumble goat cheese over the squash and drizzle with honey.
8. Fold pastry edges up over the filling to form a crust.
9. Microwave for an additional 30-45 seconds, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking time: approximately 20-25 minutes.
Microwaved Butternut Squash with Tahini Drizzle
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional roasted butternut squash, utilizing the convenience of microwaving and a tangy tahini drizzle to elevate its flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Place the squash cut-side up on a microwave-safe plate.
3. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. While the squash is cooking, mix together tahini, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl.
5. Once the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork, remove it from the microwave.
6. Drizzle the tahini mixture over the warm squash, garnishing with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (microwave), plus additional time for preparing the tahini drizzle
Microwaved Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this Microwaved Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna combines the comfort of pasta with the sweetness of roasted squash and the freshness of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 package lasagna noodles
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the microwave to high (1000W).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and place cut side up on a microwave-safe dish.
3. Cook the squash for 10 minutes, or until tender.
4. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
6. Assemble the lasagna by layering cooked noodles, spinach mixture, and roasted squash in a 9×13-inch microwave-safe dish.
7. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes
Microwaved Butternut Squash with Pecans
This recipe is a simple and healthy way to prepare butternut squash, with the added crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: brown sugar, cinnamon, or nutmeg for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to high heat.
2. Pierce the butternut squash multiple times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish and cook on high for 10-12 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the squash from the microwave and top with butter, chopped pecans, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the squash to the microwave and cook for an additional 30 seconds to melt the butter and toast the pecans.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your cooking routine with these 20 quick and delicious microwaving butternut squash recipes! From sweet treats like Maple Glazed Microwaved Butternut Squash to savory dishes like Garlic Herb Microwaved Butternut Squash, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing microwaved butternut squash with kale in a salad or tossing it with quinoa and chickpeas in a hearty bowl. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy home cooks looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal. So why wait? Start exploring these mouthwatering recipes today!
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