Squash originated in Central America, where the plant has been grown by Indigenous people for thousands of years, but it was not until the 20th century that the modern-day butternut variety was developed. A descendant of the curvy Canadian crookneck and a cousin of calabaza, today’s butternut squash has been cultivated to withstand colder climes outside of the tropical and subtropical regions in which the native plant thrives. Butternut squash has a smooth, tender texture with little to no strings and a sweet, nutty flavor—a wonderful first food for babies. Read on for nutrition information and serving suggestions!