Types of Squash: Summer and Winter
Is squash a vegetable? Well, that’s a good question as there are various opinions. Technically it is categorized as a fruit because it develops from a flower and it has seeds.
Summer squash is a big production in large amounts. It is a summer staple for our family. Squash is divided into summer squash and winter squash.
Summer Squash
Summer squash includes zucchini and yellow squash. I grow both types. They are picked while they are still somewhat immature, small and tender. The outer skin is delicate and easy to eat. The plants need to be checked daily for new produce, and when removing the squash, cutting versus breaking them off at the stem is best. The storage life of summer squash is short, unlike winter squash. Butternut squash is a type of winter squash and can be stored for longer periods of time. Fresh summer squash can be stored in the refrigerator for 7-10 days. It is packed with nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B-6, potassium, and magnesium. It is very low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.
I freeze summer squash and use it through the winter.
Winter Squash
Winter squash is generally viney, mostly large and can be stored many months into winter once they have fully matured and been harvested. I have stored butternut squash well into February. The skin (rinds) are hard and can not be eaten unlike summer squash. Winter squash you may be familiar with are butternut, spaghetti, acorn, and pumpkin. They are typically round in shape and grow along the ground or as vines. They take up a wide space in the garden, therefore, plenty of room needs to be reserved for growing these vegetables. Winter squash can be stored in a cool dark place until it is ready to be cooked. It is a low-calorie food and a good source of complex vegetable carbohydrates and dietary fiber. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. It is also a good source of some of the B vitamins.
Pumpkins and butternut squash are some of our favorites. Pumpkin is pureed for use in holiday cooking. Roasted butternut squash is a healthy way to enjoy it during the winter months.
Since winter squashes if stored properly last into the winter months, a family favorite is roasted vegetables which are heavy with butternut squash. These do not last long in my home. Enjoy!
Below are a few family favorites:
