Five creative recipes to enhance autumn squash this fall
Autumn season Healthy cooking Zero waste Budget tips
Why cook squash in September?
As the summer season begins, the stalls fill up with brightly colored squash: butternut squash, pumpkin, pattypan squash, spaghetti squash... These star vegetables of autumn herald the return of comfort food, but they also know how to slip into light recipes, perfect for prolonging summer. If you're looking to vary your diet, squash is ideal: rich in vitamins, fiber, and beta-carotene, they fit into all styles of cooking 🎃.
Their soft texture and subtle flavor lend themselves to a thousand different dishes. Whether you're a fan of gratins, creamy soups, or more original dishes, squash offers endless possibilities. And if you want to prepare them quickly, consider using a state-of-the-art air fryer : it's amazing for butternut fries or crispy chips, without excess oil!
Creative uses for back to school
Twisted squash velouté
Forget the classic soup: add coconut milk, fresh ginger, and a hint of lime for an exotic version that awakens the taste buds. Serve it piping hot with a handful of roasted hazelnuts. 🥗
Barbecue-style roasted squash
Cut the squash into large wedges, coat them with olive oil, sprinkle with smoked paprika, then grill them in the oven or on the barbecue. Want to extend summer? Get inspired by Neary's Barbecue & Grill selection for perfect spices and marinades 🔥.
Stuffed veggie squash
Empty a small patidou squash and fill it with a quinoa-dried vegetable mix, fresh herbs, and grated cheese. Bake until golden brown and serve with a crunchy salad: it's the perfect balance between indulgence and lightness.
Homemade squash gnocchi
Stir cooked and drained squash into your gnocchi dough. Give it a few turns in a high-powered blender for a smooth purée, then shape, pipe, and pan-fry with sage and browned butter. It's fluffy and super comforting!
Butternut-spice dessert cream
Cook some butternut squash, blend it finely with plant-based milk, cinnamon, honey, and a touch of vanilla. Chill it for a few hours, and you've got a unique, low-sugar, and super creamy dessert.
Tips for successful squash dishes
- Smart peeling: For squash with thick skin (butternut, pumpkin, etc.), bake them in the oven or microwave for a few minutes before peeling. The skin peels off more easily, and you avoid knife accidents.
- Optimizes cooking: Cut into regular cubes for even cooking. Modern air fryers allow for fast roasting with little fat: take a look at our air fryer comparison to choose the right model.
- Save the seeds: Don't throw them away! Toast them in the oven with paprika and salt: they become a crunchy and healthy snack, or a perfect topping for soups.
- Waste-free: Leftover cooked squash can be blended into pasta sauce, quiche topping, or a vitamin-packed smoothie base. For fresh ideas every week, check out Neary's seasonal recipes .
- Perfect texture: For an ultra-smooth purée or creamy soup, use a high-powered smoothie blender . You'll get a chef-like texture, even with the skin on.
Budget, choice and smart purchases
Squash is often economical, especially if you buy it whole and locally sourced. Make sure to choose heavy fruits with matte skin and no soft spots: this guarantees flavorful, well-preserved flesh.
Favor small producers or markets in your region to enjoy original varieties (butternut, delicata, spaghetti, patidou) at low prices. If you cook a lot, opt for batches or family sizes: squash will keep for several weeks in a cool, dry place.
Need inspiration to spice up your dishes? The BBQ & Grill range helps you add flavor to roasts, gratins, and autumn salads by playing with spices and marinades.
Finally, if you want to cook quickly, consider investing in an air fryer or a smoothie blender , two time-saving allies for express, healthy and delicious preparations!
FAQ
Which squashes are easiest to cook for the fall?
Butternut squash and pumpkin are perfect for beginners: their flesh is sweet, they cut easily and are suitable for all cooking methods (soup, roasts, mashed potatoes, gratin, etc.). Pumpkin doesn't even need to be peeled!
How to store whole or cut squash?
Whole, store them in a cool, dry place away from light, and they will last for several weeks without any problems. Cut them, wrap them well in a cool place and consume them within a few days. You can also cook them and then freeze the flesh in portions.
Any quick ideas for cooking squash every day?
Cut it into fries or cubes, air fry it or bake it for a healthy snack, or blend it into an autumn smoothie with plant-based milk and spices. Also try squash gnocchi or quick gratins.
Do you have to peel all squash?
No: Pumpkin, spaghetti squash, and some varieties are eaten with the skin, which becomes tender when cooked. For others, peel them after slightly pre-cooking for ease.
How to recycle pumpkin seeds?
Rinse them, dry them, then roast them in the oven with spices. They are delicious as an appetizer or sprinkled on your soups and salads.
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