15 Delicata Squash Recipes for the Season (2024)

FAQs

Do you eat the skin of delicata squash? ›

The delicata is actually named for its delicate, edible skin, so there is no need for peeling here. The rind of these cylindrical, striped vegetables is similar in texture to a summer squash like zucchini, and becomes perfectly tender when cooked.

Adjust oven rack to lowest position and preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Trim both ends of each delicata squash. Stand one squash up on the larger cut side and, using a chef's knife, slice it lengthwise, down through the center of the squash, creating two even halves.

There are 60 calories in a 1 cup (170.000g) serving size of Delicata Squash. The calorie breakdown is 0% fat, 100% carbs, and 13% protein.

Although this squash has been around for centuries, It started gaining popularity only a few years ago. It was rare to find it on the shelves of grocery stores or in many restaurants. This is actually because delicata squash was once prone to mildew diseases in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Risks and Side Effects

As with any food, taking note of any unusual reaction, such as itching or swelling, is important, but there are no known problems with the delicata squash. However, because of its fiber content, too much could cause flatulence.

"Squash contains a toxin known as Cucurbitacin E, which can give the squash a bitter taste. If too much of the toxin is consumed it can cause illness. It is rare, but if the squash has a bitter taste, stop eating it, and grab another one."

Storage tips: Winter Squash is best stored between 55-65 degrees, however, Delicata squash does not store quite as well as heartier varieties like Acorn and Butternut. Place in a cool dry room in your house (do not refrigerate) and it should last 3 months.

The higher the levels of cucubitacin, the more bitter the squash will taste. The most likely cause for a bitter taste in squash is due to an environmental stress of some sort, most likely a wide temperature flux or irregular irrigation. Either of these will create an excess of cucurbitacins to concentrate in the fruit.

Boost the delicious Delicata squash's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and insulin-regulating benefits with two powerful super foods!

The good fiber-rich carbs in delicata squash provide longer-lasting energy, more stable blood sugars, and fiber-driven heart protection. The bad fiber-depleted carbs in most processed foods, on the other hand, tend to cause spikes in blood sugar levels, which can trigger hunger and lead to food cravings.

Why is delicata squash so good? ›

Delicata squash is also brimming with antioxidant nutrients, like vitamin C. Vitamin C is a known antioxidant that helps keep cells healthy and can help prevent cell damage. In addition, vitamin C is used to make collagen, a protein that's crucial for maintaining strong skin.

You'll know delicata squash has gone bad if it has wrinkles or soft spots. Also, if the seeds look slimy or their color is off, you'll know it's spoiled. The seeds are normally a cream or white color. Typically, they'll be covered in the flesh of the squash.

Delicata squash is a variety of winter squash with cylindrical fruits that are cream-coloured and striped in green or orange. As its name suggests, it has characteristically a delicate rind (or skin). It is also known as peanut squash, Bohemian squash, or sweet potato squash.

Because you can eat the skin, there's no need to peel the squash before you chop it. Start by slicing it in half lengthwise. Then, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and the stringy flesh. Finally, cut the seeded squash halves into thick slices.

Delicata squash also has a ton of potassium: One cup delivers a whopping 500mg of the mineral, which can help control your blood pressure. As with many varieties of squash, it's also full of vitamin C, which plays a role in the growth and repair of body proteins.

Delicata squash is a winter squash that tastes similar to other winter squash, like butternut squash. I've heard people describe it as a cross between butternut squash and sweet potato, which seems fitting since it's nutty and a little bit buttery with a lovely sweetness.