Delicata Squash

The oblong Delicata (pronounced dehl-ih-CAH-tah) has yellow skin with green or orange stripes and often ranges in size from 4 to 6 inches in length to 2 to 3 inches in diameter. It has firm flesh and a hollow cavity filled with stringy pulp and flat seeds. 

This squash is a unique variety of winter squash in that the skin is thin, tender, and edible. True to its name, Delicata’s delicate skin is easy to slice. A popular way to prepare it is to slice the squash into rings or half-moons and bake, roast, or sauté. The delicious yellow meat is reminiscent of sweet potatoes and butternut squash. Serve it in green salads, grain bowls, tacos, pizza, pasta, and soup.

Complementing flavors include warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg and winter ingredients like pears, sage, maple syrup, and toasted pecans. It’s a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-prepare variety that can be used to make a tasty side dish or vegetarian entrée to serve during the winter holiday season.

Choose brightly colored squash with smooth skin free of blemishes. Squash will keep for up to three weeks when stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place.