Food of the Month – Summer Squash

Difference between summer and winter squash:
- Types of summer squash include Cucurbita pepo species which are: green and yellow zucchini, scallop squash, crookneck squash, and cousa squash.
- Types of winter squash include the Cucurbita maxima and moschata families which are: butternut squash, spaghetti squash, acorn squash, kabocha squash and pumpkin.
- The summer squash has a shorter storage life than winter squashes.
- Summer squash is harvested while the produce is still young allowing the skin to be soft and edible. Winter squash is harvested when mature making the skin hard but still considered edible.
- Summer squash is commonly cooked and prepared cold while winter squash can be seen in soups and baked goods.
Storage Tips:
- Store unwashed in an open paper or plastic produce bag in the crisp drawer of your refrigerator for up to a week.
- Wash your produce right before use.
- Choose squash that is large enough to be handled but not too large that two hands are needed.
- Avoid summer squash with blemishes.
- Summer squash should hold moisture and will be dry if over ripened. Look for squash that is firm
How to cook and use:
Summer squash can be used in many different ways. Enjoy sauteed, roasted, grilled, or even as noodles! Have too much? don’t worry, you can freeze cooked squash for up to 10-12 months.
Nutrition:
Serving size: 1 cup uncooked
- Calories: 22
- Fat: 0.3g
- Sodium: 2.3mg
- Carbs: 4.5g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Sugar: 3.3g
- Protein: 1.2g
- Calcium: 24mg
- Iron: 0.5mg
- Potassium: 255mg
Fun Facts:
Summer Squash is considered a fruit since it contains seeds and produces flowers.
Published on September 4, 2025