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How to prepare squash for grilling starts with picking the right squash, cutting it safely, and seasoning it so it cooks through without turning mushy.
Whether you’re working with butternut, acorn, delicata, or zucchini, the steps for how to prepare squash for grilling are pretty much the same.
You just have to treat each type a little differently based on its size and skin thickness.
In this post, we’ll walk through how to prepare squash for grilling from start to finish, including which squash to choose, how to cut it, and the best ways to season it.
Let’s get to it.
How to Prepare Squash for Grilling
Learning how to prepare squash for grilling is really about three things: picking the right squash, cutting it into grill-friendly pieces, and getting it ready to hit the grates.
Here’s how to prepare squash for grilling the right way, step by step:
1. Choose the Right Squash
The first step in how to prepare squash for grilling is choosing squash that grills well.
Butternut, acorn, delicata, and kabocha are all great for grilling because they hold their shape.
Delicata and zucchini are the easiest to grill since their skins are thin and tender.
Butternut and acorn have tougher skins that need a bit more prep work but reward you with a sweet, creamy interior.
Pick squash that feels heavy for its size and has no soft spots.
2. Wash and Dry the Squash
Before you prepare squash for grilling, give it a good rinse under cool water.
Use a vegetable brush to scrub off any dirt, especially if you plan to leave the skin on.
Pat it dry with a clean towel.
A dry surface helps oil and seasonings stick better, which matters when you’re grilling squash.
3. Cut the Squash Safely
Cutting squash for grilling is where most people struggle because the flesh is dense.
Start by slicing off both ends so the squash sits flat on your cutting board.
For butternut or acorn, cut it in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
For delicata and zucchini, you can leave the seeds in and simply cut them into rounds or half-moons.
Aim for pieces that are about half an inch thick so they cook evenly on the grill.
4. Peel Only If You Need To
When you prepare squash for grilling, you don’t always have to peel it.
Delicata, zucchini, and acorn skins soften nicely on the grill and add texture.
Butternut and kabocha have thicker skins that stay tough, so peel those before grilling.
If you’re short on time, microwaving the squash for two to three minutes softens the skin and makes peeling easier.
Seasoning Squash Before It Hits the Grill
Once your squash is cut, the next part of how to prepare squash for grilling is seasoning it well.
Here’s how to get the most flavor out of every slice:
1. Brush With Oil
Coat every piece of squash with a thin layer of olive oil or avocado oil.
Oil keeps the squash from sticking to the grates and helps it caramelize.
Use a pastry brush for even coverage, especially on cut sides where the flesh is exposed.
2. Add Salt and Pepper
Season the squash generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Salt draws out moisture and deepens the natural sweetness of the squash as it grills.
Don’t be shy here, because squash can handle a good amount of seasoning.
3. Try Sweet or Savory Rubs
For a savory spin on grilled squash, sprinkle on garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme.
If you prefer something sweeter, brush the squash with maple syrup and cinnamon before grilling.
Both approaches work beautifully, so pick based on what you’re serving alongside the squash.
4. Marinate Thick Pieces
If you’re grilling butternut or kabocha, let the pieces sit in a marinade for 20 to 30 minutes.
A simple mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs works great.
This step isn’t required, but it makes a big difference when you prepare squash for grilling thicker varieties.
Grilling Tips After You Prepare Squash
Preparing squash for grilling is only half the battle, so here’s how to actually cook it right.
1. Preheat the Grill Properly
Set your grill to medium-high heat and let it preheat for at least 10 minutes.
A hot grill gives you those nice char marks and keeps the squash from drying out.
2. Oil the Grates
Even if you oiled the squash, oil the grates too.
Use tongs and a folded paper towel dipped in oil to wipe down the grates right before adding the squash.
3. Grill Cut-Side Down First
Place the squash cut-side down on the grill and leave it alone for four to five minutes.
This gives you those deep grill marks and helps the squash hold together when you flip it.
4. Watch for Doneness
Grill the squash for about 10 to 15 minutes total, flipping once halfway through.
It’s done when a fork slides in easily and the edges are nicely charred.
So, How Do You Prepare Squash for Grilling?
You prepare squash for grilling by choosing a firm squash, washing and drying it, cutting it into half-inch pieces, and seasoning it with oil, salt, and your favorite rub.
From there, a hot, well-oiled grill does the rest of the work.
Whether you go sweet with maple and cinnamon or savory with garlic and paprika, knowing how to prepare squash for grilling means you’ll get tender, caramelized slices every single time.
Fire up the grill and enjoy.