Vegetable prep

Butternut squash and pumpkin

Separate neck from bulb, peel, scoop seeds, then cube.

IntermediateButternut squash Pumpkin

Peel and cube

Trim the top and base so it stands flat.
Cut across where the neck meets the bulb.
Stand each piece up and peel downward with a knife, or use a sturdy peeler.
Halve the bulb and scoop out the seeds.
Cut into slabs, then cubes.

Tips

Microwave a whole squash for 2–3 minutes to soften the skin before cutting.

Safety

Never cut a round squash without a flat base — it can roll and the knife slip.

Knife cuts that suit it

Use it in