Delicata Squash

A long oblong-shaped squash with a cream colored, green striped thick outer skin and a golden fine-textured inner flesh. Considered as a novelty squash, its size may range from 5 to 10 inches in length with an average weight of 1 to 2 pounds.

This squash 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. When preparing in an oven, cut the squash in half by cutting down the length of the oblong shape. Place the squash with the skin side down in a dish with 1/2 inch of water. Cover the dish and bake for 1/2 to 3/4 hour at 375 degrees. In a microwave, cook for approximately 20 minutes in a dish with a loose cover of plastic wrap. Available year round, delicata squash are best during August to October and can be kept for 7 to 8 months. It is also known as potato squash, a sweet potato squash or a Bohemian squash.