To begin with, you'll need a few basic tools: a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a sturdy spoon for scooping out the seeds. Don't worry if you don't have a specialized squash knife - a regular chef's knife will do the trick. Just make sure it's sharp, or you'll be struggling to cut through the squash's tough skin.
Now, let's talk about the anatomy of a butternut squash. It's shaped like a bell, with a long neck and a bulbous body. The skin is usually a beautiful shade of beige or tan, and it's slightly soft to the touch. When you cut into it, you'll find a hollow cavity filled with seeds and stringy pulp.
