Fall and winter are famous for pumpkin season, which are types of winter squash. There are many types of winter squash and some of the ones you may find at your grocery store include:
- Acorn squash resembles a large acorn and has a nutty mildly buttery flavor.
- Butternut squash is popular and may even be available year-round in some grocery stores. It has a sweet, slightly nutty flavor.
- Pumpkin is not just for pie! Pumpkins are buttery and sweet and go well in stews.
- Spaghetti squash is yellow in color. Once cooked, the flesh becomes stringy and is like spaghetti. The flavor is mild, so this squash pairs nicely with tomato sauce!
- Other varieties include delicata, kabocha, honeynut, buttercup, and the list goes on.
Tips and Tricks to Get the Most of Your Winter Squash
Do I have to wash winter squash? Yes! It is recommended to wash winter squashes before preparing.
How do I cut a winter squash? Since many winter squashes are bulky and very hard, use a sharp, sturdy knife to cut the squash in half. Then scoop out the seeds. From here you can cut into chunks or slices depending on how you are cooking.
Want to save a preparation step? Skip peeling delicata or acorn squash since the skin is usually less tough. When steamed or roasted the skin becomes tender and easy to chew!
What if I don’t have a sharp enough knife to cut a squash? Some grocery stores may sell fresh squash already cut up. It may come at a higher price but can be a time-saver for families.
How do I cook a winter squash? Winter squash can be roasted, boiled, steamed and can be cooked in an oven, stove, or microwave. Since different squashes have different directions, using a recipe may be helpful if you’re new to cooking squash. Ask WIC staff for a recipe or search “winter squash” on MyPlate Recipes.
Ideas To Use Winter Squash Without a Recipe
- Steam then mash butternut squash like you would potatoes.
- Top spaghetti squash with your favorite tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle cooked pumpkin with cinnamon.
Chicken, Squash and Rice Soup
Warm up with a bowl of comforting chicken soup with butternut squash.