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Produce Info, Storage Tips and Recipes

Hard-Rind Squash (Butternut, Acorn)

Hard-Rind Squash (Butternut, Acorn)

The Basics

Hard-rind squashes (or winter squashes) refer to Acorn, Butternut, Kabocha, Pumpkin (which you can read about here), and Spaghetti varieties to name a few. They differ from summer squash in that they are harvested in their mature stage, when the rind becomes tough and the seeds have fully developed. Also unlike summer squash, they should be cooked before eaten. (Read more on Wikipedia.)

Preparation

Acorn squash is easiest to prepare by leaving the skin on while cooking. Simply cut the squash in half, remove the seeds (and save them for roasting separately!) and either steam or roast the squash halves. The skin will peel off much easier when cooked. Butternut squash have a thinner skin than acorn squash and can be peeled with a vegetable peeler before cooking.

Storage Tips

Winter squash can be stored for several months in a cool, dry environment.

Nutrition

Winter squashes are a great source for vitamins A, B6, C, and K, as well as folate, fiber, potassium, and manganese. They are also rich in antioxidants, like beta-carotene, and may provide anti-inflammatory benefits as well as blood sugar regulation. (Read more about winter squash nutrition on World's Healthiest Foods.)

Recipes

Acorn Squash Breakfast Hash
Baja Butternut Squash Soup
Balsamic Roasted Butternut Squash & Mushrooms with Pasta
Butternut Squash Soup
Coconut Curry Butternut Squash Soup
Garlic-Chard Stuffed Acorn Squash with Gruyere
Goat Cheese, Caramelized Onion, Winter Squash Pizza
Herbed Winter Vegetable Roast
Mixed Bean and Winter Squash Stew with Fresh Basil
Roasted Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter Sauce
Sweet Roasted Acorn Squash
Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash