what is considered a winter squash

What can I do with winter squash?

Winter squash can also be eaten in the immature state like summer squash, if picked when the skins are still tender enough to puncture with a fingernail. All varieties of winter squash are great for pur eing, steaming, roasting and baking.

What are the different types of winter squash?

Types of Winter Squash

• Acorn Squash. Acorn squash is small, round and has a dull, dark-green rind with orange markings. ...
• Banana Squash. Banana squash has orange, pink or blue skin, and vibrant orange flesh. ...
• Buttercup Squash. ...
• Butternut Squash. ...
• Carnival Squash. ...
• Delicata Squash. ...
• Hubbard Squash. ...
• Kabocha Squash. ...
• Spaghetti Squash. ...
• Sugar Pumpkin. ...

More items...

What are the health benefits of winter squash?

winter squash helps in reducing the risks for heart. The carotenoids present in winter squash help in regulating the blood sugar level. Its potassium content too helps in lowering blood pressure. The vitamin C present in winter squash helps in preventing the growth of conditions like diabetic heart disease and atherosclerosis.

How to choose the best winter squash?

Plant different varieties depending on your situation

• Not a lot of room? Try bush or more compact varieties. ...
• Shorter growing season? Grow smaller types and look for varieties with shorter days to harvest. ...
• Not a fan of the taste or texture of certain types? Be familiar with the tastes, and grow one you like to eat! ...
• Have pests and diseases been a problem in the past? ...

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Is zucchini a winter squash?

Squash are technically fruit, but cooked as vegetables, and come in many different varieties, usually grouped into “summer squash” and “winter squash.” Zucchinis are summer squash. Squash in this comparison refers to all types of squash in general, including average nutritional values.

What is the difference between winter squash and summer squash?

Summer squash is characterized as being soft-skinned, making it more tender and moist overall. In contrast, winter squash is considered to be more hard-shelled, making it ideal for storing throughout the cold months (hence why it's called winter squash).

Is pumpkin considered a winter squash?

Despite its name, winter squash is grown in the summer. The name comes from the fact that the mature fruits can be stored for winter eating. Pumpkins are also types of winter squash.

Is yellow squash a winter squash?

Winter squash vs summer squash They include: butternut, pumpkin, acorn, delicata, hubbard, and spaghetti squash (to name a few). Summer squash: These, on the other hand, have more tender skins and do not store for as long. These include: zucchini, yellow, and pattypan squash.

What squash is not a winter squash?

The “summer squash” is a soft-skinned squash. The “winter squash” is hard-shelled squash. Summer squash might be more aptly named a “tender squash.” It has moist flesh and a tender skin. Tender, summer squash is harvested steadily from early to late summer.

Why do they call it winter squash?

It's called winter squash because unlike its summer cousin, winter squash has a thick rind that allows it to keep for long periods of time. Winter squash harvested in late summer and early fall can last through to winter.

What is the best winter squash?

Best-Tasting Winter SquashSunshine Kabocha Squash.Cream of the Crop Acorn Squash.Baby Pam Pumpkin.Butternut squash have some of the best flavor of all!Delicata Squash.

What is in the winter squash family?

Cucurbita pepoAcorn squash.Carnival squash.Delicata squash.Field pumpkin.Heart of gold squash.Spaghetti squash.Sweet dumpling squash.Autumn cup squash.More items...

Is spaghetti squash a winter or summer squash?

winter squashWhat is spaghetti squash? Spaghetti squash (Cucurbita pepo) is a type of winter squash. Members of the winter squash family are known for their hard rinds and long shelf-life. Other types of winter squash include acorn, butternut, delicata, and buttercup squash, among others.

What kinds of squash are winter squash?

Types of Winter SquashAcorn Squash.Banana Squash.Buttercup Squash.Butternut Squash.Carnival Squash.Delicata Squash.Hubbard Squash.Kabocha Squash.More items...•

What squash is summer squash?

Crookneck squash. Straightneck squash. Zucchini (courgette) and marrow, respectively immature and ripe fruits of Cucurbita pepo.

Is crookneck squash a winter squash?

Dutch crookneck squash, botanically classified as Cucurbita moschata, is an heirloom variety of American winter squash and is a part of the Cucurbitaceae family along with pumpkins and gourds.

Are butternut squash summer or winter squash?

Winter Squash Varieties Examples of winter squash include butternut squash, spaghetti squash, acorn squash, kabocha squash, and pumpkin. (For more fall and winter squash varieties, check out our guide to gourds, from red kuri to cheese pumpkins.)

Is patty pan squash a summer or winter squash?

Much like zucchini, patty pan is a type of summer squash that's meant to be enjoyed while the skin is still soft and thin so there's no need to peel it. Its flying saucer-like shape is very distinctive and the scalloped edges of the fruits are the genesis of its other common name - the scallopini squash.

Can you eat winter squash?

Winter squash is nutritious and delicious, but most of us don't eat very much of it. One reason is that we can't think of new ways to cook it, and you can only eat so much squash soup. Another reason is that many of us grew up eating (unripe) acorn squash, and they don't taste good.

Can winter squash grow in summer?

If you've been wondering how to grow winter squash, you shouldn't worry; growing winter squash is no difficult task. These are easy vining plants that take over when they see fit and take the vegetable to the finish line. There are many different varieties, and all of them take summer and fall to finish growing.

How long can you keep winter squash?

Ripe winter squash has a hard skin that protects it and usually allows it to be stored for up to six months with no ill effects. Popular varieties include pumpkin, acorn squash, butternut squash, hubbard squash, and turban squash.

What is the color of butternut squash?

Easily recognizable by its light beige skin and its bulbous pear shape, butternut squash typically has a deep orange-colored flesh with a sweet and nutty flavor, similar to sweet potatoes. Butternut squash often works well as a soup ingredient.

What is the glaze on acorn squash?

Some recipes for baked acorn or butternut squash call for a glaze made from orange juice and honey.

How big is an acorn squash?

Acorn squash is typically small, usually weighing between one and three pounds. Its shape resembles an acorn. These squashes are usually dark green in color, but some varieties are golden. The flavor of the acorn squash is sweet and nutty. Acorn squashes are normally sold in grocery stores.

What is a Hubbard squash?

Hubbard squash is a very large squash with tapered ends and blue-gray, dark green, or orange skin. The skin of a hubbard squash is very hard, which protects the squash. Its flesh is moist and less sweet than other varieties of winter squash.

What is the color of pumpkin?

Pumpkins are some of the most easily recognizable types of winter squash. They typically have an orange or yellow hue and a thick skin. Most pumpkin varieties are tough and flavorless, except for sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins. These are smaller and sweeter than other varieties and can be used in pumpkin pie and other recipes.

Can butternut squash be used as a soup?

Butternut squash works well as a soup ingredient.

What is winter squash?

An assortment of winter squashes. Winter squash is an annual vegetable representing several squash species within the genus Cucurbita . It differs from summer squash in that it is harvested and eaten in the mature stage when the seeds within have matured fully and the skin has hardened into a tough rind. At this stage, most varieties of this ...

What is the name of the squash that is a pumpkin?

In New Zealand and Australian English, the term " pumpkin " generally refers to the broader category called "winter squash".

When is squash best harvested?

It is harvested whenever the fruit has turned a deep, solid color and the skin is hard. Most winter squash is harvested in September or October in the Northern Hemisphere, before the danger of heavy frosts.

Can you eat winter squash in the winter?

At this stage, most varieties of this vegetable can be stored for use during the winter. Winter squash is generally cooked before being eaten , and the skin or rind is not usually eaten as it is with summer squash.

Is squash a good source of fiber?

Source: USDA FoodData Central. Winter squash is a low-calorie food and a good source of complex vegetable carbohydrates and dietary fiber. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, a great source of vitamin C, potassium, dietary fiber and manganese, and a good source of folate, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B 1 (thiamin), copper, tryptophan, ...

When is winter squash harvested?

What you may not know about winter squash is it's actually harvested in the summertime. It gets its name based on how long it will keep. Winter squash have tough exteriors, helping them to last well into the winter months even without refrigeration.

What is the best squash to cook in the winter?

3. Butternut Squash. Pale yellow (almost cream colored) on the outside with somewhat sweet, orange flesh, butternut are a large winter squash with smooth but thick skin. Popular ways to prepare butternut squash include baking, simmering, braising, and steaming.

What to do with squash in winter?

Bring on squash season! Here are a few ways to prepare winter's squash bounty:.Delicata squash has a tasty yellow flesh that is typically prepared by baking, frying, braising, or steaming.Acorn squash is often prepared simply: sliced in half, baked with a little butter or olive oil.Popular ways to prepare butternut squash include baking, simmering, braising, and steaming .A popular squash for boiling or mashing, hubbard squash are very big with a thick shell that's bumpy.It's called "spaghetti squash" because, when cooked, the golden flesh separates out like long strings of spaghetti. .When you think fall, sugar pumpkins immediately come to mind. They're fabulous in pies, breads, and muffins.Try stuffing red kuri squash much like you would sweet dumpling or acorn squash

How to purée squash for pie?

Bring to a boil and cook until the squash is tender. Let the chunks cool, then scoop out the flesh and purée in a food processor or mash it. To use the purée in pies, pass it through a strainer or sieve to remove any fibers or chunks.

Why is spaghetti squash called spaghetti squash?

Spaghetti Squash. It's called "spaghetti squash" because, when cooked, the golden flesh separates out like strings of spaghetti. These pale yellow squash have a hard, smooth shell and are at their peak in early fall through the winter, though you can find them year-round.

How to cook a squash with a rimmed baking sheet?

Cut in half and remove pulp and seeds. Place the squash halves, cut-side up, on a rimmed baking sheet. Rub the flesh with softened butter or oil, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with brown sugar, maple syrup, or orange juice.

How long to cook a squash in the oven?

Flip the squash over and roast them for 40 to 45 minutes in a preheated 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) oven. Roast the squash until the skin is blistered, browned, and the flesh is tender.

What is winter squash?

Winter squash varieties include large, medium and small squash in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes. Growing winter squash is easy and the sprawling vines grow like crazy with a couple of very basic requirements – fertile, well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.

What is the difference between a butternut squash and a delicata squash?

The bright orange flesh has a nutty, sweet flavor. Delicata – Delicata squash has a flavor much like sweet potatoes, and this small squash is often known as the “sweet potato squash.”.

What is the color of the rind on a banana squash?

The bumpy rind may be gray, green or bluish-gray. Banana – Banana squash is a huge squash with an elongated shape. The rind may be pink, orange or blue and the flesh is bright orange. Many people consider banana squash to be one of the most versatile and flavorful winter squash varieties.

What is an acorn squash?

Acorn – Acorn squash is a small squash with a thick, green and orange rind. The orange-yellow flesh has a sweet, nutty flavor.

What is the color of the Hokkaido squash?

Blue Hokkaido – Blue Hokkaido squash, which is actually a type of pumpkin, has a deliciously sweet, nutty flavor. The skin is grayish-blue and the flesh is bright orange. Hubbard – Hubbard squash, with a chunky teardrop shape, is one of the largest types of winter squash.

Is turban squash edible?

While turban squash is often used for its ornamental value, it is edible with a sweet, mild flavor. Sweet Dumpling – Sweet dumpling squash is one of the smallest kinds of winter squash. The rind is off-white, with yellow or green speckles. The golden flesh is sweet and nutty.

What is winter squash?

The term winter squash is a bit of a misnomer: Harvested in the fall, these hardy vegetables will keep well through the cold winter months for which they're named. Chances are that sugar pumpkins, acorn squash, and butternut squash are the most readily available types at local supermarkets. Others, such as spaghetti, buttercup, and red kuri, are worth seeking out at farmers' markets, health food stores, or specialty shops. Regardless of the type, to get the best quality, select winter squash that are blemish- and bruise-free, with an intact stem and heavy feeling for their size.

What are the characteristics of a butternut squash?

Characteristics: A slim neck and bulbous bottom give the butternut squash its distinctive bell shape. The muted yellow-tan rind hides bright orange-yellow flesh with a relatively sweet taste. To make butternut squash easier to handle, cut the neck from the body and work with each section separately.

What is the difference between a carnival squash and an acorn squash?

Characteristics: Breed an acorn squash with a sweet dumpling squash, and you get a carnival squash. While the carnival squash's exterior resembles both of its relatives' , its yellow flesh is mellow and sweet. Use it wherever acorn squash or butternut squash is called for in a recipe.

What does a dumpling squash taste like?

The flesh tastes very much like sweet potato, and the skin is edible is as well.

What is the difference between a red kabocha and a green kabocha?

While the two are interchangeable, the green kabocha is relatively savory, and the red kabocha is unmistakably sweeter.

What is the Japanese word for squash?

Kabocha Squash. Aliases: Japanese Pumpkin, Kent Pumpkin. Characteristics: The squat, green kabocha —the Japanese word for squash—has a nutty, earthy flavor with just a touch of sweetness. It's similar in shape and size to a buttercup squash, but the base points out and not in.

What is a sugar pumpkin?

Sugar Pumpkin. Aliases: Pie Pumpkin. Characteristics: If your Halloween pumpkin was small and squat, chances are it was a sugar pumpkin. But more than just decorative, sugar pumpkins are prized for their classic pumpkin flavor, as well as for their thick and flesh-packed walls.

What is the difference between summer squash and winter squash?

The primary difference between summer and winter squash is the skin; summer squash is harvested before it fully matures, which means its skin is still tender and full of flavor. Winter squash, however, often has a thicker, tougher rind; this allows it to stay strong and hardy through frost and lower temperatures, but it also means that you don't want to munch on the skin. (There are a few exceptions to this rule, like delicata and acorn squash, which are winter squash varieties with flavorful, tender skins.)

What is the best squash to eat in the winter?

Squash is one of the best sources of nutrients you can find in the cold winter months. Winter squash varieties like acorn squash, butternut squash , and sugar pumpkins are chock full of vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and even protein. They're also low in saturated fat and cholesterol. In addition to its praise-worthy nutritional benefits, winter squash also happens to be delicious. It typically boasts a sweet flavor and a creamy, buttery texture that lends itself beautifully to roasting or mashing. In addition to the flesh, you can often also roast some squashes' seeds to make a tasty (and healthy) seasonal snack.

What is the most underrated squash?

Slightly sweet and creamy, the buttercup squash is one of the most underrated winter squash varieties. It has a tough green rind and orange flesh that bears resemblance to a pumpkin. Like the pumpkin, the buttercup squash's seeds can also be roasted to snack on.

What is pumpkin used for?

Pumpkin is best known for its sweet uses, from Pumpkin Cake to Pumpkin Cheesecake to Pumpkin Pie (and don't even get us started on pumpkin spice ). But you can also try it in savory dishes like our Pumpkin-and-Winter Squash Gratin, Slow-Cooker Chicken Stew with Pumpkin and Wild Rice, or Spiced Pumpkin Grits. And be sure to roast those pumpkin seeds for a healthy fall snack.

How long does it take for zucchini to grow?

These cute little zucchinis are also known as Eight Ball Squash and come in a perfectly-round ball shape. They grow extremely quickly (45 days!); they're solid early producers that will be a hit at any summer cookout or potluck.

What is summer squash?

Summer squash is one of the most prolific types of produce, with zucchini, yellow squash, and pattypan squash bursting into harvest and flooding the markets throughout the season. You'll find baskets full of these summer squash varieties at your local farmers' market. Summer squash is harvested before it fully matures, which means its skin is tender and edible. It doesn't need much dressing up; prepare it simply with a few minutes in the frying pan or on the grill and you'll have a stunning fresh, seasonal side.

When did Chayote squash come to Louisiana?

Also known as Chayote Squash, this large, flavorful squash migrated to Louisiana in the 1800s and has propagated in the state ever since. The Louisiana Mirliton almost faded off the culinary scene after Hurricane Katrina, but has since experienced a resurgence thanks to dedicated heirloom farmers.

The Difference

For starters, one of the main differences between winter and summer squash is it’s texture. Summer squash is characterized as being soft-skinned, making it more tender and moist overall. In contrast, winter squash is considered to be more hard-shelled, making it ideal for storing throughout the cold months (hence why it’s called winter squash).

Varieties of Squash

As mentioned before, there are over 100 varieties of squash, both winter and summer, that can be grown and harvested here in the U.S.

Grades of Fall and Winter Type Squash and Pumpkin

U.S. No. 1 consists of squash or pumpkin which meet the following requirements:

Visual Aids

Official Visual Aids are available for Purchase. See How to Purchase Visual Aids for more details.

Detailed standards, Inspection Instructions & Other Resources

U.S. Grade Standards for Fall and Winter Type Squash and Pumpkin (pdf)

Overview

Planting and harvesting

Subspecies, cultivars and varieties

See also

External links