Micro-Broiled Winter Squash

Directions

1. 1
   PIERCE the skin of the squash in a few places with the tip of a knife.
2. 2
   Place in a microwave-safe dish.
3. 3
   MICROWAVE one squash at a time on high for 10 to 12 minutes.
4. 4
   The squash skin should feel soft, but not mushy.
5. 5
   Let the squash cool for about 5 minutes.
6. 6
   HEAT the broiler.
7. 7
   Butter a large ovenproof casserole.
8. 8
   CUT each squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
9. 9
   With a big spoon, scoop the flesh into the prepared dish.
10. 10
    Drizzle the olive oil over the top and sprinkle with salt to taste.
11. 11
    Broil on high 4 inches from the heat source until lightly charred to your liking, about 5 minutes.
12. 12
    SERVE with the squash sauce of your choice.
13. 13
    Melt the butter in a small saucepan.
14. 14
    Stir in the pecans and cook over medium heat until lightly toasted, about 3 minutes.
15. 15
    Stir in the remaining ingredients.
16. 16
    Spoon the sauce over the warm squash.
17. 17
    Melt the butter in a small saucepan.
18. 18
    Stir in the almonds and cook over medium heat until lightly toasted, about 2 minutes.
19. 19
    Stir in the remaining ingredients.
20. 20
    Spoon the sauce over the warm squash.
21. 21
    Melt the butter in a small saucepan.
22. 22
    Stir in the onion and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
23. 23
    Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the onion is soft and beginning to brown.
24. 24
    Stir in the remaining ingredients.
25. 25
    Spoon the sauce over the warm squash.