It's Delicata Squash Season! These Recipes Show Why You'll Want It (2024)

FAQs

Is delicata squash in season now? ›

Delicata is available from late summer through early winter. Choose squashes that are similar in size and shape to ensure even cooking. Small woody patches on the skin are okay, but avoid squashes with soft spots, bruises, or mold.

Delicata squash also has a ton of potassium: One cup delivers a whopping 500mg of the mineral, which can help control your blood pressure. As with many varieties of squash, it's also full of vitamin C, which plays a role in the growth and repair of body proteins.

Delicata squash skin

The delicata is actually named for its delicate, edible skin, so there is no need for peeling here. The rind of these cylindrical, striped vegetables is similar in texture to a summer squash like zucchini, and becomes perfectly tender when cooked.

Storage tips: Winter Squash is best stored between 55-65 degrees, however, Delicata squash does not store quite as well as heartier varieties like Acorn and Butternut. Place in a cool dry room in your house (do not refrigerate) and it should last 3 months.

Although delicata is typically considered a winter squash variety, it actually belongs to the same species as summer squash varieties like cousa, zucchini, pattypan, etc. The delicata squash is sometimes referred to as a sweet potato squash or a peanut squash.

Unopened and stored at room temperature, a fresh delicata squash can last for about 1 to 2 months. Always make sure to check the printed date on the packaging, if applicable. Once you have cut the squash, you should keep it in the refrigerator, where it will only remain good for one week.

Squash also contains fiber, which can be difficult for the body to break down. Individuals who are sensitive to certain foods or who have digestive issues may be more likely to experience gas and bloating after consuming squash. However, squash is also a nutritious vegetable that provides many health benefits.

Its low glycemic index can help prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, making it a suitable option for maintaining stable glucose levels. Moreover, the dietary fiber content in squash aids in slowing down the absorption of sugar, promoting better blood sugar control and overall metabolic health.

It is also known as peanut squash, Bohemian squash, or sweet potato squash.

Delicata Squash Defining Qualities & History

It was rare to find it on the shelves of grocery stores or in many restaurants. This is actually because delicata squash was once prone to mildew diseases in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Why is my delicata squash oozing? ›

If the stem has been broken or removed at harvest the area may ooze liquid the color of brown sugar. This is OK as long as the squash seems fresh and there's no softening of the flesh. When: Delicata is a prolific variety and tends to hold well in storage.

Delicata squash ripens early. The cylindrical shape of the 8-inch-long fruits makes them easy to stuff with ground meat, grains, nuts, cheese or other vegetables. Delicata squash gets its name from its thin, delicate skin. The skin is easy to cut, tender and edible―this is rare among winter squashes.

Dogs can eat any type of squash, but you'll want to make sure that you remove the seeds before feeding it to your dog. While a few seeds won't hurt your dog, if they eat too many, they can cause a backup in your dog's digestive system.

Raw, cut delicata squash will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Cooked squash can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for four to five days. To freeze delicata squash, spread diced cubes on a baking sheet.

Delicata squash is available starting in late summer, through the fall, and into early winter. You can find it at most grocery stores, specialty food stores, and farmers' markets. Look for squash that feels heavy for its size without any soft or moldy spots.

HARVEST: Fruits are typically ready about 50-55 days after fruit set, and should be harvested before any hard frosts.

Summer squash, despite the name, is generally available year-round; varieties include zucchini, yellow, pattypan and crookneck. Common winter squash, such as butternut and spaghetti, are also available year-round, but other varieties, such as turban and fairytale, typically peak November to December.