What is a "butternut squash"?

A butternut squash is a type of winter squash with a distinctive elongated shape and a pale beige or tan skin. It has sweet and nutty orange flesh that becomes creamy when cooked. Butternut squash is versatile and can be roasted, baked, steamed, or pureed. It is commonly used in soups, stews, risottos, and pasta dishes, as well as roasted as a side dish or added to salads. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin A and vitamin C, as well as antioxidants and dietary fiber, making it a nutritious and flavorful addition to meals.