Squash

Cucurbita (genus) Vegetable

Squash Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

"The Versatile Gourd of Culinary Delights"

Definition

A diverse category of gourds, including varieties like butternut, acorn, and zucchini, consumed as vegetables, known for their versatility and nutritional value.

Major Types Winter Squash (hard skin), Summer Squash (soft skin)
Nutritional Value Rich in Vitamin A, C, and Fiber
Storage Longevity (Winter) 3-6 months in cool, dark place

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Squash are:

Earthy Sweet (winter) Mild Grassy (summer)

Chef’s Secret

When roasting winter squash, don't peel it! Many varieties (like delicata or even thin-skinned butternut) have edible skins that become tender and delicious when roasted, adding nutrients and texture.

Best Substitutes

Sweet Potato

for roasted winter squash
Ratio 1:1

Pumpkin

for purees/soups
Ratio 1:1

Zucchini

for other summer squash

Buying Guide

For winter squash, look for heavy, firm squash with no soft spots. For summer squash, choose firm, unblemished ones that are not too large (can be watery).

Recipes Using Squash

Egg Free Course Fall Rice

A Bit Of Chicken Lemon Squash Leek Rice

This comforting and flavorful one-pan chicken and rice dish is bursting with bright lemon notes and the sweetness of squash, complemented by savory leeks and bacon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal cleanup! Easily adaptable to your pantry – substitute short-grain rice if you don't have Arborio.

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Equipment Tomatoes Peppers Low In Something

Baked Garlic Soup

Indulge in the irresistible aroma of this baked garlic soup! Roasted garlic's sweetness mingles with rich herbs and creamy cheese for a comforting and flavorful experience. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening and will leave you craving more.

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Occasion American Lunch North American

Anti Baldness Soup

Boost your hair health from the inside out with this delicious and nutritious Anti-Baldness Power Soup! Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, this recipe promotes healthy hair growth while satisfying your taste buds. Perfect for a healthy and convenient lunch or dinner, this easy-to-make soup is a delicious way to nourish your body and support strong, vibrant hair.

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Equipment Preparation Time To Make Main Ingredient

Bacon Topped Squash Casserole

This creamy, dreamy Bacon-Topped Squash Casserole is the perfect comfort food for fall! Featuring tender squash, crispy bacon, and a cheesy breadcrumb topping, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Even squash skeptics will be won over! Easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

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Roast Side Dishes Holiday Event Free Of Something

Bengali Spiced Squash

Experience a burst of flavor with this aromatic Bengali Spiced Squash recipe! Inspired by a delicious magazine (November 2004), this roasted squash dish is incredibly flavorful and easy to make. Perfectly spiced and tender, it's a fantastic side dish or a light vegetarian meal. The original recipe was paired with roasted ginger chicken, but this squash steals the show! Imagine the warm spices, the perfectly roasted squash, and the satisfying crunch. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unforgettable taste of Bengal!

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Vegetables Course Summer Equipment

Baby's Squash Casserole

This simple and easy butternut squash casserole recipe is a family favorite! A comforting classic with creamy, cheesy goodness, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or holiday gathering. Get ready to savor this delicious, time-tested recipe passed down through generations.

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Christmas Low In Something Low Calorie Time To Make

Applesauce Squash Souffle

A delightful twist on a classic souffle! This recipe, originally shared in the Boston Globe's confidential chat during the swinging 60s, transforms humble squash into a light and airy masterpiece. Perfect for picky eaters (even those who refuse yams!), this applesauce-infused souffle is guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a fluffy, flavorful sensation that's both comforting and elegant.

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Vegetarian Course Time To Make Vegetarian

Adzuki Bean Bake

A comforting and flavorful Gillian McKeith-inspired bake, elevated with the sweetness of sweet potatoes! This hearty vegetarian dish combines tender adzuki beans with a medley of roasted vegetables, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal. Customize the cook time for your preferred sweet potato texture – crispy or soft – and enjoy this delicious and healthy recipe.

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Cuisine Side Dishes Course Main Dish

Ann's Squash Custard

This Squash Custard recipe, perfected over 40 years, is a creamy, comforting delight! Sweet butternut squash meets a hint of spice, all baked to golden perfection and topped with crunchy tortilla chips. A family favorite, guaranteed to impress!

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Preparation Main Ingredient Dietary North American

1 Squash Dressing

This Southern Squash Dressing recipe is a game-changer, even for squash skeptics! Bursting with flavor and warmth, it's the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any autumn gathering. Get ready for a taste of the South that will leave you craving more. We promise!

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