Squash – Delicata
Cucurbita pepo
Delicata squash nearly disappeared after The Great Depression as it wasn’t being widely grown due to its susceptibility to powdery mildew. In the early 2000s, Cornell University bred a variety of Delicata that is resistant to most squash diseases thus bringing this squash cultivar back into the mainstream.
Seasonality
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
| • | • | • | • | • |
Description
Delicata is a winter squash that is cylindrical in shape with cream colored skin and green to orange stripes. It has a moderately sweet flavor and is high in beta carotene and Vitamin C.
Storage tips
Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
Culinary tips
- The skin of delicata is tender enough to eat so peeling isn’t necessary.
- Delicata can be roasted, baked, steamed, or sauteed.
- Try cutting the squash in half lengthwise, scooping out the seeds, and slicing the squash into half moons. Toss the squash with your favorite spices then roast it until tender and beginning to caramelize.
- Delicata holds up well to stuffing: cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, then bake or roast the halves until tender. Fill with your favorite grain or meat based stuffing.
