Discover the heirloom variety of Winter Squash - the Cucurbita pepo var. Delicata. Often known as Delicata Squash, this remarkable cultivar delivers fruits that are 7-9 inches long, with a creamy, yellow to ivory skin, adorned with dark green stripes along its ribs. This variety boasts a uniquely delicate, edible rind, earning it its name and other monikers such as peanut squash, Bohemian squash, or sweet potato squash. Enjoy the sweet flavor that this variety offers, perfect for roasting in half rounds.
Growing Delicata Squash is straightforward and rewarding. Begin by sowing seeds when the threat of frost has passed, planting them one inch deep, with 5-6 seeds per hill. Within approximately 105 days, your squash will be ready for harvest, requiring only a week of curing in a warm, frost-free place. Note, that unlike other types of winter squash, Delicata Squash doesn't store well over extended periods.
This versatile squash can be prepared in many ways - baked, microwaved, sautéed, or steamed. It can be stuffed with a variety of meat or vegetable mixtures, and its seeds can be toasted and enjoyed too. Known for its creamy texture and easy cooking, Delicata Squash is a healthy addition to your diet, contributing dietary fiber, potassium, and small amounts of vitamins C and B, magnesium, and manganese. Discover the delight of Delicata Squash today!