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Winter squash is really a misnomer, as these delicious treats are grown in the summer. They are edible well into the winter, however, thanks to their ability to last for months in storage. First, be sure to check for any soft spots. If there are any, cook that squash right away. Soft spots can easily be cut out and the rest of the squash is usually fine.
Delicata squash is a long, oblong-shaped squash with a cream colored, green-striped, outer skin and a golden, fine-textured inner flesh. This is one of the tastier winter squashes, with a creamy pulp that tastes a bit like corn and sweet potatoes. It can be baked or steamed and served as a side dish, seasoned with butter and herbs, providing a sweet nutty flavor with a creamy smooth texture. The thin skin is also edible.
Pumpkins aren’t the only squash that yield tasty seeds for roasting! Next time you prepare a winter squash (e.g. butternut or acorn squash), save the seeds and have yourself a nutritious little snack.
This Melissa Clark recipe from NY Times Cooking is tasty and easy enough; just don’t let the ingredient list discourage you! It serves 4.
We usually roast winter squash, but you can braise your winter squash instead if you are willing to trade more prep time for less cook time. Braised or simmered squash cooks in just a few minutes, and you’re left with the benefit of all that creamy sauce, too. This recipe from thekitchn.com shows how to do it. The squash can be served in chunks, or puréed into a sauce, e.g. for serving over pasta.
From the website, www.cooklocal.com, this easy recipe serves 4 (or 2 if you are really hungry!). You can readily add some pancetta or bulk sausage to the stuffing for a non-vegetarian meal. Cook the meat for at least 10 minutes at the start of the recipe, then proceed with garlic, beans, kale, etc., as noted. Just as yummy!