Acorn squash, spaghetti squash, and butternut squash are just a sampling of varieties of winter squash.

Learn how to prepare squash in a few simple steps.

They also require longer cooking times than other vegetables.

Trimming Squash

Winter squash are good sources of vitamins A and C, as well as riboflavin and iron.

Read on for ways to prepare the three most popular winter squash varieties.

How to Cut Squash

Use caution when cutting butternut squash or other winter varieties.

Cutting squash in half

Step 2: Cut in Half

Insert the knife lengthwise into the center of the squash.

Use your other hand to gently press the knife all the way through the squash.

You may discard the seeds or save them for roasting.

Scraping out seeds

The squash is now ready to be chopped as desired for using in recipes.

Get our best squash recipes.

Test Kitchen Tip:If using small winter squash, each baked half may be served whole.

Peeling winter squash

Spaghetti squash math: one 2-pound squash yields about 3 cups shredded squash noodles.

Cooking spaghetti squash is easy and results in tender, noodle-like strands.

Get our bestmethods for making spaghetti squash.

Removing flesh from spaghetti squash

Tips for Serving Spaghetti Squash