How To Freeze Butternut Squash

How to freeze butternut squash

The best way to freeze raw butternut and other varieties of winter squash is in one-inch cubes, after first peeling it and removing the seeds. Peel and cut the squash into one-inch chunks. Spread the pieces in a single layer on a parchment or wax paper-lined baking sheet and place in the freezer.

Do I need to blanch butternut squash before freezing?

Yes, you can certainly freeze it without cooking it. In fact, freezing uncooked butternut squash is the easiest way and doesn't affect the safety. However, it's best to blanch the squash before freezing it. Blanching means cooking it very quickly in boiling water, then plunging into ice water immediately after.

What is the best way to freeze squash?

Slice the squash into manageable chunks (roughly 1-inch cubes). Lay out the diced squash on a baking sheet in a single layer, then place it in the freezer for about an hour, or until frozen. Transfer the squash to a plastic bag, and store in the freezer for up to a year.

What is the best way to preserve butternut squash?

Freezing is the only safe method for preserving pumpkin and squash purees, butters and preserves. Select full-colored, firm and undamaged produce. Wash, cut into cooking-size sections and remove seeds.

Is it better to freeze butternut squash raw or cooked?

Butternut squash freezes like a champ! More good news: It does fine whether frozen raw or cooked. And the fact that yours has been cut into small chunks is no problem.

How do you store butternut squash for the winter?

Storage Conditions Squash store best at an even 50°F in a dark place. This could be a cool and dark shelf, cabinet, or drawer in the kitchen, pantry, or closet. They also store well in a warmer section of the root cellar such as on the top shelf.

How do you freeze squash in a Ziplock bag?

Drain the squash: This will remove excess moisture and prepare the squash for freezing. Put it in a zip-close freezer bag (I used pint-sized bags), and get out as much air as you can. Then stick it in the freezer for use any time of the year!

Can you freeze fresh uncooked squash?

Can you freeze squash without cooking it? Yes! Prep your squash by peeling, removing the seeds and chopping then add to the freezer. Skip the steps of roasting, blanching or sautéing prior to freezing.

How long do I blanch squash before freezing?

Once the water returns to a boil, blanch squash for 3 minutes (4 minutes at elevations greater than 3,500 feet). After 3 minutes, remove the squash, using the basket or colander, and plunge pieces into cold water or ice water. The quicker the slices or grated squash cool, the more crispness they will retain.

What is toxic squash syndrome?

Cucurbit poisoning, often referred to as toxic squash syndrome, is an uncommon illness that can result in severe hair loss and symptoms similar to food poisoning. Cucurbitacins are compounds that can be found in the Cucurbitaceae family, which also comprises of cucumbers, melons, pumpkins, and squash.

How do you store butternut squash long term?

Store whole butternut squash in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area. The ideal temperature for butternut squash (and any winter squash) is between 50℉ and 60℉, so a cool pantry or cellar would work best.

How do you freeze squash for storage?

To freeze squash slices so that they do not stick together, place them in a single layer on a cookie sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze solid. Once the slices are solid, place them into freezer bags or rigid freezer containers.

What is the best way to freeze buttercup squash?

Storing & Cooking Information Storing: Winter squash will last 3-6 months stored at room temperature in a dry and cool (50-55 degrees) but not cold location. Freezing: Cook the squash until soft, scoop out the flesh, pack in freezer containers, label, and place in the freezer.

How long do you blanch butternut squash?

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Peel and seed the squash. Cut into pieces 1/4-inch thick and one to two inches long. Blanch the squash in the boiling water for three minutes.

Can squash be frozen whole?

Yes, you can certainly freeze it without blanching. The purpose of blanching prior to freezing is to stop the enzymes that degrade the flavor, it's not for safety. As long as you eat the squash within 4 to 6 months, the flavor should be ok.

Can you leave butternut squash on the vine too long?

Leave it too long and you run the risk of your lovingly tended squash going soft in the frosts. Impressive in shape and size, these sprawling vines are amongst the easiest vegetables to grow, and are perfect zucchini companion plants.

Can butternut squash withstand a freeze?

Most winter squash have pretty good frost tolerance, as long as they don't get exposed to a hard freeze where the temperature might get down to 28° for more than a couple hours. If a heavy frost or freeze is predicted, you can cover your squash with old blankets or a tarp to provide some protection.

Can you vacuum seal fresh squash and freeze it?

Seal the vegetables in bags using a vacuum sealing system or by removing as much air as possible from a freezer bag before sealing. Label the containers or bags with the name of the vegetable, the cut, and date. Once sealed and frozen, it can be stored for up to 3 months or up to a year or more if vacuum sealed.

Should frozen squash be thawed before cooking?

No need to thaw frozen butternut squash. You can season it frozen and take it right to the sheet pan. Once roasted, these golden cubes are fodder for salad and grain bowl toppings. They can also be added at the last minute to quick pasta dinners or eaten over oatmeal.