Squash

Summer squashes do not enjoy the extended shelf-life that winter squashes (such as acorn and butternut) do. The thin-skinned summer squash will keep for only for a matter of days, while winter varieties may keep for a month or longer. Although they are cooked and served like a vegetable, summer squashes--like winter squashes--are actually fruit.

Squashes were first raised in the Americas and later spread to Europe. There are many varieties. In fact, the website thenibble.com has a squash glossary describing 40 types! Squashes are commonly divided into two categories—winter squash and summer squash. Winter squashes (such as acorn, butternut, spaghetti, and pumpkin) are the ones with thick, hard skin. Summer squashes (such as zucchini and yellow crookneck) have thinner, softer, edible skins. The seasonal labels don’t refer to availability; both types are generally available year round.