Butternut squash is a type of winter squash that grows on a vine. Low in fat, butternut squash delivers an ample dose of dietary fiber, making it an exceptionally heart-friendly choice. Because of its tough outer shell it keeps well for long periods of time. It is used culinarily as a vegetable that can be roasted, sautéed, toasted, puréed for soups such as squash soup, or mashed to be used in casseroles, breads, muffins, and pies.