If you haven’t heard of or seen the movie Frozen then you most definitely have been living under a rock (or maybe even on another planet). Well, as much as I like this movie, there is one thing that bothers me. Anna doesn’t get enough recognition!! Everyone loves Elsa because she has the beautiful ice-blue dress, sings the best song of the movie, and oh yeah, has the ability to create a winter wonderland with a point of her finger. But what about Anna? After all, she is the main character, and just because she doesn’t have super powers, she shouldn’t be cast aside. I know, I need to let it go (ha!).

Now, to my point. Butternut squash is just like Anna, while pumpkin is like Elsa. Pumpkin gets so much attention in the fall, especially the last couple years. Pumpkin lattes, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin pie, pumpkin chili, pumpkin ravioli. You name the food and I guarantee a recipe exists that incorporates that food and pumpkin. I even make a pumpkin quesadilla (by the way, check out my new quesadillas menu!). As much as I love pumpkin, I am absolutely crazy for butternut squash right now. It is still in season and the possibilities of deliciousness are endless!

Here are some different ways to eat this scrumptious squash:

Soup  Butternut Squash soup is delicious! Many recipes call for apples to accentuate the sweetness of the squash. Alternatively, it can be cubed and take the place of white potatoes that you may usually add to various soups (like chicken vegetable).

Roasted  A simple side dish, yet Oh. So. Good. I cannot get enough of roasted butternut squash. A sprinkle of salt and pepper and a drizzle of olive oil and you have a delicious healthy side dish. Want to jazz it up a bit? You can add garlic powder and/or balsamic vinegar before roasting. The squash gets a little crispy on the outside but stays soft on the inside. Perfection!

Stuffed  That’s right. You basically take whatever you want, mix it with the flesh of the squash and then put it all back in the squash halves and bake it in the oven. Tex-Mex, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Sausage, Beef…are you getting the picture?

Mac and Cheese  Hidden Veggies, anyone? Add butternut squash to this comfort food and voilà! You have creamy macaroni and cheese that you can enjoy with less guilt because it’s healthier.

Some health benefits of butternut squash: It’s a low in fat, high in fiber complex carb that helps you feel full. It’s jam-packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium (it has more than a banana), and beta-carotene, just to name a few.

Check out this article to learn more about the benefits of butternut squash: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/284479.php

Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut Squash Filet Quesadillas

How do you like to prepare and eat butternut squash? Share your ideas below!