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An Autumn Guide to Winter Squashes

Joni Garcia, Asst. Manager, YFM

It’s winter squash season!  I get excited when I start to see the arrival of these beauties because it means the crisp fall weather is upon us.  While many of us know butternut squash, the other types of winter squashes may be a little more confusing.  I know I’ve asked myself, “What is that!?” or “What do I do with that?”  If you’re in the same boat, here is a simple guide.

 

Winter Squash Varieties

 

Acorn Squash

It has a moist, tender flesh that’s distinctly nut-like, yet mild and sweet. It is traditionally halved, seeded, drizzled with maple syrup and roasted.

 

Butternut Squash

Has a deep orange flesh that is smooth and very sweet, similar to sweet potato and yam, with hints of butterscotch. This popular squash is amazingly versatile and easy to peel with a vegetable peeler.

 

Delicata Squash

This squash is milder than, and not as sweet, as other winter squash, so it pairs well with hearty winter dishes. Delicata squash is one variety where you can eat the skin! The thinner skin is barely detectable when cooked, so there’s no need to peel it.

 

Honeynut Squash

The smaller, sweeter, more delicate cousin of the butternut. This adorable squash is easy to prep because the skin is thin enough to eat. Their size makes them ideal for personal-sized roasted squash. Just chop ’em in half, scoop out the seeds, drizzle in oil, and season to taste!

 

Spaghetti Squash

The flesh is noodle-like in appearance and is often used as a pasta substitute (perfect for gluten-free diets). Like other squash, it can be halved and roasted; or you can roast it whole, slice it in half, and pull out the long squash “noodles.”


How Do I Make a Good Selection?

Winter squash comes in all shapes, sizes and colors.  Select squash that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid squash with soft spots or cracks. The squash should have a thick skin.


What’s the Proper Storage?

Store squash in a cool, dry place. Most squash can be stored for one month, some can be stored up to three months. Store cut squash in a covered container in the refrigerator.


Why Eat Winter Squash?

Because they are delicious! Winter squash is a good source of Vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system (important during cold and flu season!) and helps heal wounds and cuts. Winter squash is also rich in Vitamin A, which promotes eye health and cell growth. It also has potassium to help with muscle cramping, and fiber to help keep our GI system working well.

 

How Can I Use Winter Squash?

  • Add winter squash to soups 

  • Use squash like pumpkin in baked goods like cookies and muffins 

  • Use spaghetti squash in place of pasta

  • Purée squash and use as a sauce over pasta 

  • Stuff acorn squash with meat and grains, like rice

  • Roast squash in the oven 

  • Steam squash and serve as a side dish 

  • Add squash to a grain side dish 

  • Serve cooked squash on top of a salad 

  • Roast pumpkin seeds with seasonings

 

 

 

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