Article: Rinse the squash with cold water and pat it dry. This will remove any dirt particles lingering on the squash's skin. Poking holes in the squash will allow steam to escape while the squash cooks in the microwave. Just like a potato, the squash needs to be able to vent while it cooks. Your holes don't need to be more than 0.25 inches (6.4mm) in, so don't worry if the squash is too hard to stab the fork very far. If you pierce the skin at all, steam will escape. Space the holes a few inches apart; you don't need more than 15-20 holes. Place the butternut squash on a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 5 minutes. This will soften the squash, which will help you cut it. Don't worry if you can't fit the whole squash onto one dish; it's fine if it sticks out. Using a sharp chef's knife or serrated knife, cut the squash into 2 equal halves with a sawing motion. Cutting the squash will help it cook faster. When using your knife, hold the handle with your middle, ring and pinky finger, while using your thumb and index finger to hold the blade itself. This is called a "blade grip" and offers more control and balance than using all of your fingers to hold the handle. If you have the time (and access to an oven), set your seeds aside to make a tasty snack later. If not, discard the seeds. Place the butternut squash halves flesh-side down on a microwave-safe dish. Again, the halves can be larger than the dish. The length of time will depend on the size of your butternut squash. It's okay to take it out and check it at 5 minutes. If it needs more time, put it in for another 5 minutes. The squash should be tender enough that you can stick a fork all the way through it. Microwaved butternut squash is great for soups, hummus, or a healthy snack.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Wash the butternut squash. Poke holes in the squash with a fork. Plate the squash and microwave it for 5 minutes. Cut the squash from top to bottom. Remove the seeds and plate the squash flesh-side down. Microwave on high for 5-10 minutes. Let the squash cool and serve it any way you like.