Types Of Squash And How To Cook Them

Last Updated on January 8, 2023 by Lauren Beck

Squash is an incredibly versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of different dishes. From butternut squash soup to roasted acorn squash, many different types of squash can be cooked in a range of ways. This article will look at a few of the most popular types of squash and provide some tips on how to cook them. Whether you’re looking for an easy side dish or a delicious main course, this guide will help you make the most out of this versatile vegetable.

Table of Contents

12 Types of Squash and How to Cook Them

Butternut Squash – Butternut squash is one of the most popular types of squash. It has a mild, sweet flavor and can be used in a variety of ways. To roast it, cut it into cubes and toss with a bit of olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Roast it in a 425-degree F oven for about 30 minutes, occasionally stirring, until it is golden and tender.
Acorn Squash – Acorn squash has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It can be roasted, steamed, boiled, or microwaved. To roast it, cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with your favorite spices, and roast in a 375-degree F oven for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
Spaghetti Squash – Spaghetti squash is a unique type of squash that has a mild flavor and a stringy texture that resembles spaghetti noodles. To cook it, cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side down in a baking dish. Bake in a 375-degree F oven for about 45 minutes, or until it is tender. Once cooked, use a fork to scrape the strands of squash away from the skin.
Delicata Squash – Delicata squash has a mild flavor and creamy texture. It can be roasted, baked, boiled, or steamed. Cut it in half lengthwise to roast it and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, season with your favorite spices, and roast in a 400-degree F oven for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
Zucchini – Zucchini is a mild-tasting squash that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be grilled, sautéed, roasted, or boiled. To roast it, cut it into cubes and toss with a bit of olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Roast in a 400-degree F oven for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden and tender.
Yellow Squash – Yellow squash is a mild-tasting squash that can be cooked a variety of ways. It can be grilled, sautéed, roasted, or boiled. To roast it, cut it into cubes and toss with a bit of olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Roast in a 400 degree F oven for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden and tender.
Kabocha Squash – Kabocha squash has a sweet, nutty flavor and a dense texture. It can be roasted, baked, boiled, or microwaved. To roast it, cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with your favorite spices, and roast in a 375 degree F oven for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
Calabaza Squash – Calabaza squash is a sweet and creamy squash that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be roasted, baked, boiled, or microwaved. To roast it, cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with your favorite spices, and roast in a 400-degree F oven for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
Red Kuri Squash – Red Kuri squash has a sweet and nutty flavor and a creamy texture. It can be roasted, baked, boiled, or microwaved. To roast it, cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with your favorite spices, and roast in a 400 degree F oven for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
Hubbard Squash – Hubbard squash has a sweet flavor and a dense texture. It can be roasted, baked, boiled, or microwaved. To roast it, cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with your favorite spices, and roast in a 375-degree F oven for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
Turban Squash – Turban squash has a sweet and nutty flavor and a creamy texture. It can be roasted, baked, boiled, or microwaved. To roast it, cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with your favorite spices, and roast in a 400-degree F oven for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
Pumpkin – Pumpkin is a popular type of squash that can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a sweet and nutty flavor and a dense texture. To roast it, cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, season with your favorite spices, and roast in a 400-degree F oven for about 30 minutes, or until tender.

No matter which type of squash you choose, cooking it is easy and the results are always delicious. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or the star of the show, you can’t go wrong with squash.

What’s the Difference Between Summer Squash and Winter Squash?

The main difference between summer squash and winter squash is the time of year they are harvested. Summer squash is harvested during the summer months while winter squash is harvested during the fall and winter months. Additionally, summer squash has a softer skin and shorter shelf-life than winter squash. Summer squash also tends to be more watery and less dense than winter squash.

How to Pick a Perfect Squash at the Grocery Store?

When selecting a squash at the grocery store, look for one that is heavy for its size and has a firm, tough skin. Avoid any squash with soft spots, wrinkles, or blemishes. Pick one up and feel its weight; if it feels light, it may be under-ripe. Additionally, the stem should be green and not dried out. If you’re buying a pre-cut squash, make sure the flesh is firm and not mushy.

What’s the Best Way to Store Squash?

The best way to store squash is in a cool, dark place. Whole squash should be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks. Cut squash should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is Squash a Fruit or Vegetable?

Squash is technically a fruit because it contains the seeds of the plant, however, it is often considered to be a vegetable due to its savory flavor and texture.

Health Benefits of Squash

Squash is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and fiber. It is also low in calories and contains no fat or cholesterol. Additionally, squash is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against free radical damage. Finally, squash is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health [1].

Conclusion

Squash is a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. From roasting to boiling, there are many ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. With its sweet and nutty flavor, squash is a great addition to any meal. Plus, it has numerous health benefits, making it an excellent choice for any diet. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, squash is a great option that is sure to please.

Reference:

https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-squash

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Lauren Beck

Lauren Beck is a Food Science & Technology graduate, born and raised in NYC, but lived in Japan for more than eight years. Her love forAmerican food and Japanese culture led her to create Kitsune Restaurant. She loves taking walks with her dog - an American Akita she aptly named Hachiko. Learn more about us here or you can email us contact@kitsunerestaurant.com.

Types of Squash and How to Cook Them