If you feel like peeling a whole butternut squash is a little intimidating (or even dangerous) here are two tips to make preparing a butternut squash easier.
1. If you need to peel or cut the butternut squash for your recipe, soften the skin before you try attempt either task! Simply prick the butternut all over with a fork, slice the top and bottom off with a very sharp knife, and then put it into the microwave on high for 3½ minutes. Let it cool slightly and then peel it with a vegetable peeler. The skin will be much softer and easier to peel.
2. If you are going to puree the butternut squash, its simple to avoid peeling or chopping it. Prick the bulb two or three times, place the whole butternut in a roasting dish and bake it in the oven at 170˚C until it is well cooked and soft, and the skin is slightly wrinkled and golden. Remove from the oven and set aside until it is cool enough to handle. With a sharp knife, slice the slightly cooled butternut in half lengthways. Scoop out the seeds with a dessert spoon and discard. Now scoop the delicious roasted flesh out of the skin, and continue with your recipe.
Hope these tips help!