To soften rinds in the microwave or oven, remember to pierce holes in the squash first and foremost! Use a knife or fork to pierce around 8 holes into the rind. Each cut should be about 1/2 inch deep. Then microwave the squash on high for around 4 to 6 minutes, or bake the squash for 15 minutes on 375°F. Let cool before cutting. Alternatively, some chefs prefer to bake the squash entirely with the rind still intact. Just remember to pierce your squash all over.