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Carnival squash is a versatile winter squash you can roast, stuff, turn into soup, or bake into sweet and savory dishes.
If you’ve been wondering what to make with carnival squash, you’re in for a treat because this creamy, slightly sweet squash works in almost anything.
It has a mild, nutty flavor similar to butternut or acorn squash, which makes it perfect for both sweet and savory recipes.
In this post, we’ll explore what to make with carnival squash, from simple roasted sides to hearty mains and cozy soups.
Let’s dive in.
What to Make With Carnival Squash: Tasty Recipe Ideas
When you’re figuring out what to make with carnival squash, the options are pretty much endless.
Here are some of the best things to make with carnival squash that’ll have your kitchen smelling amazing.
1. Roasted Carnival Squash
Roasting is one of the easiest things to make with carnival squash.
Just cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and brush the flesh with olive oil.
Season with salt, pepper, and a little brown sugar or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Roast at 400°F for about 40 minutes until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
This is a great side dish for fall and winter meals.
2. Stuffed Carnival Squash
Stuffed carnival squash is another fantastic option if you want something hearty.
Roast the halves first, then fill them with a mix of rice, sausage, cranberries, and herbs.
You can also go vegetarian with quinoa, black beans, and cheese.
Pop it back in the oven for 15 minutes so everything melds together.
This is one of those dishes that looks fancy but is actually simple to make.
3. Carnival Squash Soup
Soup is a cozy way to enjoy carnival squash.
Roast the squash first to bring out its natural sweetness.
Then sauté onions and garlic, add broth and the roasted squash, and simmer.
Blend until smooth, then stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk.
A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon takes it to the next level.
4. Carnival Squash Puree
If you’re not sure what to make with carnival squash, start with a simple puree.
Roast or steam the squash until soft, then mash or blend it.
Use the puree in pies, muffins, pancakes, or even baby food.
You can freeze it in portions so you always have some on hand.
It’s a great substitute for pumpkin or butternut squash puree in any recipe.
How to Prep Carnival Squash Before Cooking
Before you decide what to make with carnival squash, you need to prep it properly.
The skin is edible once cooked, but many people prefer to peel it.
Here’s how to get it ready:
1. Wash and Dry
Rinse the squash under running water to remove any dirt.
Pat it dry with a clean towel.
2. Cut It Safely
Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut the squash in half lengthwise.
If it’s too hard, microwave it for 2-3 minutes to soften it slightly.
Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits with a spoon.
3. Peel or Leave the Skin On
The skin becomes tender when roasted, so you can leave it on.
If you’re making soup or puree, peeling gives you a smoother texture.
4. Cut Into Pieces
Cube the squash into even chunks so it cooks evenly.
Smaller pieces roast faster, while larger chunks work better for stuffing.
Tips for Cooking Carnival Squash
No matter what you make with carnival squash, a few tips will help you get the best results.
1. Roast for Maximum Flavor
Roasting brings out the natural sugars and gives carnival squash a deeper flavor.
It’s worth the extra time compared to boiling or steaming.
2. Season Generously
Carnival squash loves warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cumin.
It also pairs well with savory herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage.
Don’t be shy with the salt either, as it balances the sweetness.
3. Save the Seeds
Don’t toss the seeds when you’re prepping carnival squash.
Rinse them, toss with oil and salt, and roast them for a crunchy snack.
They’re delicious and make good use of the whole squash.
4. Store Leftovers Properly
Cooked carnival squash keeps in the fridge for about 4-5 days.
Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
You can also freeze cooked squash for up to 3 months.
So, What to Make With Carnival Squash?
What to make with carnival squash really comes down to your mood and what you have on hand.
You can roast it, stuff it, blend it into soup, or puree it for baking.
It’s a flexible squash that works in sweet and savory recipes alike.
Whether you’re cooking a simple weeknight dinner or planning a holiday feast, carnival squash deserves a spot on your menu.
So grab one at your local market and start experimenting with what to make with carnival squash.