Squash season is here, and it’s time to make the most of these versatile veggies! Each squash offers unique flavors and textures perfect for various dishes, from the classic zucchini to the charming patty pan. Whether you’re a fan of creamy soups, hearty roasts, or innovative pasta substitutes, our guide to seasonal squash will help you navigate their uses, cooking tips, and storage secrets. Discover how to squash your culinary challenges with these tasty seasonal delights!
Zucchini Squash
Uses: Great for grilling, sautéing, baking (zucchini bread), or spiralizing into noodles.
Cooking Tips: Slice and grill with olive oil and herbs for a quick side dish, or shred and add to baked goods for moisture.
Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days; best kept in a plastic bag.
Interesting Fact: Zucchini flowers are also edible and can be stuffed or fried for a unique dish.
Uses: Ideal as a low-carb substitute for pasta; can be topped with sauces or used in casseroles.
Cooking Tips: Cut in half, remove seeds, and roast cut-side down until the flesh can be shredded into spaghetti-like strands.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months; once cut, refrigerate and use within 5 days.
Interesting Fact: Spaghetti squash gets its name from how its flesh separates into long, noodle-like strands when cooked.
Spaghetti Squash
Acorn Squash
Uses: The slightly sweet flesh is perfect for roasting, stuffing, or using in soups, and it pairs well with maple syrup and butter.
Cooking Tips: Cut in half, scoop out seeds, and roast with the cut side up, filled with butter and brown sugar.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months; refrigerate cut pieces and use within a week.
Interesting Fact: Acorn squash is rich in fiber and vitamin C, making it a nutritious meal addition.
Uses: They are ideal for grilling, sautéing, or stuffing, and their small, round shape makes them great for individual servings.
Cooking Tips: Grill or sauté with garlic and olive oil for a simple and flavorful dish; or stuff and bake with your favorite fillings.
Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to a week; best stored in a plastic bag to maintain moisture.
Interesting Fact: Also known as “scallop squash,” patty pan squash has a mild flavor and tender texture, perfect for quick cooking.
Patty Pan Squash
Butternut Squash
Uses: It is excellent for roasting, mashing, soups, and purées; its sweet, nutty flavor pairs well with savory spices.
Cooking Tips: Peel, cube, roast with olive oil and spices, or purée for a creamy soup.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months; once cut, refrigerate and use within 5 days.
Interesting Fact: Butternut squash is high in vitamins A and C, making it a healthy choice for cold-weather dishes.
