How To Cut Squash For Grilling

To cut squash for grilling, you’ll want to start by choosing the right type of squash and washing it thoroughly before making any cuts.
 
The good news is that learning how to cut squash for grilling is pretty straightforward once you know a few simple techniques.
 
Whether you’re working with butternut, acorn, zucchini, or delicata, the goal is to create flat, even pieces that cook evenly on the grill.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to cut squash for grilling, including the tools you need, the safest methods, and a few handy tips to make the process easier.
 
Let’s get started.
 

How to Cut Squash for Grilling the Right Way

Cutting squash for grilling is all about prep work, and here’s how to do it step by step.
 

1. Choose the Right Squash and Wash It

The first step in how to cut squash for grilling is picking squash that’s firm and heavy for its size.
 
Avoid any squash with soft spots, cuts, or mold, since those won’t grill well.
 
Once you’ve got your squash, rinse it under cool running water to remove dirt and debris from the skin.
 
You don’t need soap, just a good scrub with your hands or a vegetable brush.
 

2. Gather Your Tools

Before you cut squash for grilling, grab a few essential tools.
 
A sharp chef’s knife is a must because a dull blade makes cutting squash dangerous and messy.
 
You’ll also want a sturdy cutting board that won’t slip, and a spoon for scooping out seeds.
 
A peeler comes in handy for squash with thick, tough skin like butternut.
 

3. Trim the Ends and Cut It in Half

To start cutting squash for grilling, slice off the top and bottom ends so it sits flat on your cutting board.
 
A flat base keeps the squash stable while you work.
 
Next, cut the squash in half lengthwise.
 
For round squash like acorn, this means cutting right through the middle.
 
For long squash like butternut, you may want to cut it crosswise into two manageable sections first.
 

4. Scoop Out the Seeds

Once your squash is halved, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
 
This step matters when you cut squash for grilling because seeds burn easily and add bitterness.
 
Scrape until the inside is clean and smooth.
 
Don’t toss those seeds, by the way, as they’re great for roasting.
 

5. Peel If Needed

Whether you peel your squash depends on the variety.
 
Delicata and zucchini have tender skin that grills beautifully, so no peeling needed.
 
Butternut and acorn have tougher skin, so peeling makes them easier to eat after grilling.
 
If you’re wondering how to cut squash for grilling with thick skin, a Y-peeler makes quick work of it.
 

6. Slice Into Even Pieces

Now for the main event: slicing your squash into grill-ready pieces.
 
The key to how to cut squash for grilling is keeping pieces uniform so they cook at the same rate.
 
Aim for slices or planks about ½ inch thick.
 
Thinner pieces fall apart on the grates, while thicker pieces take forever to cook through.
 
For butternut, cut the neck into rounds or planks and cube the bulbous end.
 
For acorn, cut each half into wedges or thick slices.
 
For zucchini, simply slice lengthwise into long strips.
 

Tips for Cutting Squash for Grilling Safely

Cutting squash for grilling can be tricky because squash is dense and slippery, so here are some safety tips.
 

1. Use a Sharp Knife

A sharp knife is the number one rule when you cut squash for grilling.
 
Dull knives require more pressure, which means they’re more likely to slip and cut you.
 
Sharpen your knife before you start, or use a heavy cleaver for really tough squash.
 

2. Stabilize the Squash

Always create a flat surface before cutting.
 
That’s why trimming the ends first is so important when you cut squash for grilling.
 
If your squash still wobbles, place a damp towel under your cutting board to keep it from sliding.
 

3. Microwave Hard Squash First

If you’re struggling to cut through a rock-hard butternut, microwave it for 2-3 minutes.
 
This softens the flesh just enough to make cutting squash for grilling much easier.
 
Let it cool before you start slicing, and be careful because it’ll be hot.
 

Best Squash Varieties for Grilling

Not all squash grill equally well, so here’s a quick rundown of the best options.
 

1. Zucchini and Yellow Squash

These are the easiest to grill because they’re tender and cook fast.
 
Slice them lengthwise into planks, brush with oil, and they’re ready in minutes.
 

2. Butternut Squash

Butternut is sweet and creamy when grilled, but it needs to be peeled and cut into uniform pieces.
 
It takes longer to cook, so give it a head start on the grill.
 

3. Acorn and Delicata Squash

Acorn and delicata hold their shape well on the grill.
 
Delicata’s skin is edible, so you can skip peeling entirely when you cut squash for grilling.
 

So, How Do You Cut Squash for Grilling?

You cut squash for grilling by washing it, trimming the ends, halving it, scooping out the seeds, peeling if needed, and slicing it into even ½-inch pieces.
 
Use a sharp knife, stabilize the squash on a sturdy board, and microwave hard varieties if they’re tough to cut.
 
Once your squash is prepped, brush it with oil, season it, and toss it on a hot grill for a smoky, caramelized side dish that’ll steal the show.
 
Now that you know exactly how to cut squash for grilling, fire up those coals and enjoy.