Mint-Orange Squash

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 325 degrees F.
2. 2
   Brush each squash wedge with about 1 teaspoon olive oil, then sprinkle with about 1/4 teaspoon salt and a pinch of cayenne if using.
3. 3
   Place the squash quarters on a baking sheet skin-side down.
4. 4
   The squash is done when it is fork-tender (about 45 minutes).
5. 5
   Meanwhile, grate the zest (the orange skin, not the white pith) and squeeze the juice from the orange.
6. 6
   Remove the squash from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the mint, orange juice, and zest.
7. 7
   To fake it -- and save 35 minutes: Prepare three 12-ounce packages frozen winter squash according to the label directions.
8. 8
   With a wooden spoon, beat in the grated zest of 1 orange, 3 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional).
9. 9
   Sprinkle with mint-zest mixture immediate after squash is done cooking.