Butternut squash is a very versatile winter squash. It can be roasted, mashed, pureed for soups, used in muffins or bread – AND can also be used to make these pretty Thanksgiving or holiday name “cards.” They can also adorn the top of pie with the words “Save Room” or “Thankful” or really anything else your heart desires.

Materials needed: butternut squash, knife, alphabet letter cookie cutters, toothpicks, awl or narrow nail, scissors, hammer, mini pumpkins or gourds.

Step 1: Slice the squash lengthwise into ½” deep slices.
Step 2: Using the alphabet letter cookie cutters, cut out the letters of your guests’ names.
Step 3: Insert a toothpick into the bottom of each letter.
Step 4: Snip the end off the toothpick, leaving about ¼ inch.
Step 5: Using the nail or awl and hammer, poke holes across the top of the mini pumpkin or gourd, one hole for each letter.
Step 6: Insert each letter into each hole. Push the toothpick in far enough to make the letter flush with the top of the mini pumpkin.

PS: These could also look lovely as a centerpiece, don’t you think?

Photography by Tim Gibson