Delicata Squash – All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What is delicata squash?

If you’re like most people, you’re probably wondering what is delicata squash?

Delicata squash is a pinstriped yellow and green winter squash. Also known as peanut squash, sweet potato squash, or Bohemian squash, delicata squash is part of the Cucurbita pepo family, which means it’s related to zucchini, spaghetti squash, acorn squash, and yellow summer squash.

It’s part of three species groups: Cucurbita pepo, Cucurbita moschata, and Cucurbita maxima.

It’s a pretty small variety of winter squash, and it most commonly grows on a vine. However, there’s also a variety that grows on a bush. It usually grows to about 3in across and 6in long. The skin is tender and edible, unlike other winter squash varieties.

Where did delicata squash originate from?

The delicata squash was introduced in 1891 in the United States during the Great Depression thanks to its short shelf life and low yield. It was referred to as a disease-resistant squash by the end of the 20th century.

The delicata squash eventually made its way into the general market, and it’s regained popularity in recent years.

What are the benefits of eating delicata squash?

Delicata squash has a ton of nutritional value, including high amounts of :

• Folate
• Dietary fiber
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin B
• Vitamin C
• Calcium
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Iron
• Potassium

Thanks to all of these vitamins and minerals, delicata squash can:

• Help increase energy
• Improve your immune system
• Boost the recovery process after an injury or illness
• Improve vision
• Improve skin and hair health
• Aid indigestion
• Control weight

How is delicata squash grown?

Delicata squash is grown at the peak of the summer season and harvested in the fall.

They can be either direct sown or sown indoors for transplanting later. The plants have a short growing season—they mature within 80 to 100 days. Delicata squash typically reaches a height of about 10 to 12in.

To grow them, choose somewhere with lots of sunlight and at least 4sq ft of space. Then, dig a 3in layer of compost and create a flat-topped, 1sq ft round mound. Once the temperature goes above 70 degrees for at least 5 days straight, plant your delicata squash.

If you’re going to be planting more than one, make sure the seeds are evenly spaced. Also, cover the seeds lightly with soil and then press them into the soil at least 1in deep.

Once the first set of leaves reach a height of 2in, get rid of all but three plants. Water them as necessary, and after a month, only water them deeply when the top 2in of soil is dry.

When is delicata squash in season?

Delicata squash is available in the fall up until early winter. However, in some areas, you can get it year-round.

How do you pick delicata squash at the grocery store?

Finding delicata squash that’s ripe and fresh is always best. You’ll know it’s ripe if the vertical strips of color in the grooves turn orange. They are unripe when they’re dark green. But if you don’t plan on using them right away, there’s nothing wrong with buying them unripe.

If you are looking to have your groceries delivered, you can easily shop for delicata squash via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products. Shop for delicata squash.

How to store delicata squash

You can store delicata squash whole at room temperature. Store it in a cool, dark place, such as your pantry, between 56 and 65 degrees.

But keep in mind that delicata squash doesn’t store as well as other varieties like butternut squash and acorn squash. If stored according to these instructions, your delicata squash should last at least 3 months. If you cut it open or cook it, you can keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

The best way to preserve delicata squash is to freeze it after cooking it. Heat the oven to 400 degrees and cut the squash in half. Scoop out the seeds and place them face down on a dish or baking sheet. Then, add 1/2in of water to the pan and roast it for about 20 to 30 minutes or until you can pierce a fork through the skin effortlessly.

Let it cool, cut it how you want it, and put it in your freezer storage container. Label it, and you can freeze and store it for up to 6 months.

How to tell if delicata squash is bad

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. It should be brightly colored inside. If something seems off about the color of the seeds or the inside, throw it away.

What can I substitute for delicata squash?

Thought you still had some delicata squash somewhere in the back of the fridge but realized you actually don’t? Don’t worry, you can substitute it with sweet potatoes, acorn squash, or butternut squash (depending on the recipe).

Selecting the best delicata squash

As you can see, delicata squash has amazing benefits. So if you’ve been thinking of making something that calls for it, get some delicata squash delivered with the rest of your fresh produce. Get produce delivery with Instacart and get your fresh delicata squash the same day.

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