Grilled Butternut Squash Recipe

Butternut squash: A large, firm squash that needs to be peeled, seeded, and sliced into ½-inch pieces.

Olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps to prevent the squash from sticking to the grill.

Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the squash.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor.

To achieve perfectly grilled butternut squash, make sure to cut the slices evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Brushing the slices with olive oil not only helps to prevent sticking but also enhances the natural sweetness of the squash. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cumin to the seasoning mix.

• butternut squash - Substitute with acorn squash: Acorn squash has a similar texture and sweetness when grilled, making it a good alternative.

• butternut squash - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a comparable sweetness and can be grilled similarly to butternut squash.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it suitable for grilling.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is neutral in flavor and has a high smoke point, perfect for grilling.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar salty flavor but with a slightly different mineral content.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains and can be used in the same quantity for a similar taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor profile but with a slightly different color.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat and a different flavor dimension to the dish.

• Allow the grilled butternut squash to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the squash soggy.

• Place the cooled squash slices in an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The grilled butternut squash will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Lay the squash slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the squash slices to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to use, thaw the grilled butternut squash in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• Alternatively, you can reheat the squash directly from frozen. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.

• To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid microwaving the squash, as it can become mushy.

• Enjoy your grilled butternut squash as a side dish, in salads, or as a topping for soups and stews.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the grilled butternut squash slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the butternut squash slices in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until heated through.

• Microwave Method: Place the grilled butternut squash slices in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the butternut squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• Steaming Method: Place a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Arrange the grilled butternut squash slices in the basket. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.

• Grill Reheat Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the butternut squash slices back on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly charred.

• Grill: Used to cook the butternut squash slices, giving them a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.

• Large bowl: Used to toss the butternut squash slices with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

• Tongs: Handy for placing the squash slices on the grill and flipping them over to ensure even cooking.

• Knife: Essential for peeling, seeding, and slicing the butternut squash into ½-inch slices.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for cutting the butternut squash.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Serving platter: Ideal for presenting the grilled butternut squash slices once they are cooked and ready to serve.

Pre-cut squash: Buy pre-cut butternut squash from the store to save time on peeling and slicing.

Use a grill basket: A grill basket can make flipping the squash slices easier and faster.

Batch cooking: Grill extra squash and store leftovers for quick meals later in the week.

Preheat grill: Ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat before starting to save cooking time.

Season ahead: Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper while the grill is heating up.