Winter squash can last for a long time if stored properly. If you have a whole, uncut winter squash, you can store it in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a pantry, a basement, or a garage, for up to 3 months. If you have a cut or cooked winter squash, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze winter squash by peeling and chopping it into cubes, and blanching it in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain the squash and let it cool completely, then spread it on a baking sheet and freeze it until firm. Transfer the frozen squash to a freezer bag or a container, and freeze it for up to 12 months. You can also freeze cooked or pureed winter squash in a freezer bag or a container, and freeze it for up to 6 months.
• Pickling: You can pickle winter squash by peeling and chopping it into cubes, and packing it into sterilized jars. In a saucepan, bring some vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and your favorite spices to a boil, and pour the hot brine over the squash, leaving some headspace. Seal the jars and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Store the pickled squash in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
• Canning: You can can winter squash by peeling and chopping it into cubes, and packing it into sterilized jars. Add some boiling water to the jars, leaving some headspace. Seal the jars and process them in a pressure canner for 55 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure. Store the canned squash in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
• Dehydrating: You can dehydrate winter squash by peeling and slicing it into thin pieces, about 1/8 inch thick. You can also use a food processor to shred the squash. Blanch the squash pieces in boiling water for one to two minutes, and drain well. Arrange the squash pieces on dehydrator trays, leaving some space between them. Dehydrate the squash at 135°F for 10 to 16 hours, or until crisp and brittle. You can also use an oven set to the lowest temperature, but it may take longer. Store the dehydrated squash in airtight containers in a cool, dry place for up to a year.

Winter squash can be cooked in a variety of ways, depending on your preference and the type of squash you are using. Some of the best methods for cooking winter squash are:

• Baking: This is a simple and easy way to cook winter squash. You can cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. You can also cut the squash into cubes or slices, and toss them with some oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Bake the squash in a preheated oven at 375°F for 45 to 60 minutes, or until tender.
• Roasting: This is a similar method to baking, but at a higher temperature and shorter time. Roasting can bring out the natural sweetness and caramelization of the squash. You can cut the squash into cubes or slices, and toss them with some oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Roast the squash in a preheated oven at 425°F for 25 to 35 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
• Boiling: This is a quick and easy way to cook winter squash, especially if you want to mash or puree it. You can peel and chop the squash into cubes, and place them in a large pot of water. Bring the water to a boil, and cook the squash for 15 to 20 minutes, or until soft. Drain the squash and mash or puree it with a fork, a potato masher, or a blender.
• Steaming: This is a gentle and healthy way to cook winter squash, as it preserves most of the nutrients and moisture. You can peel and chop the squash into cubes, and place them in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Cover the pot and steam the squash for 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender.
• Sauteing: This is a great way to cook winter squash if you want to add some flavor and texture. You can peel and chop the squash into cubes, and heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the squash and some salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes, or until browned and crisp.

Winter squash has a versatile flavor that can pair well with many different ingredients, depending on the type of squash and the dish you are making. Some of the best flavor pairings for winter squash are:

• Butter and brown sugar: This is a classic and simple combination that can enhance the sweetness and richness of the squash. You can add some butter and brown sugar to the squash before or after cooking, and enjoy it as a side dish or a dessert.
• Sage and thyme: These are aromatic and earthy herbs that can complement the nutty and savory flavor of the squash. You can add some fresh or dried sage and thyme to the squash before or after cooking, and serve it with roasted chicken, turkey, or pork.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: These are warm and spicy spices that can add some depth and complexity to the squash. You can add some ground cinnamon and nutmeg to the squash before or after cooking, and use it as a base for soups, pies, or breads.
• Maple syrup and pecans: This is a sweet and crunchy combination that can create a delicious contrast with the soft and smooth texture of the squash. You can drizzle some maple syrup and sprinkle some chopped pecans over the squash after cooking, and enjoy it as a breakfast or a snack.
• Cheese and bacon: This is a cheesy and smoky combination that can add some richness and saltiness to the squash. You can sprinkle some grated cheese and crumbled bacon over the squash after cooking, and bake it for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Curry and coconut milk: This is a spicy and creamy combination that can transform the squash into a flavorful and exotic dish. You can cook the squash with some curry powder and coconut milk, and serve it with rice, naan bread, or lentils.