How to Pick the Perfect Winter Squash

I’m sure you’ve seen people strolling the produce aisle, thumping, sniffing, squishing their produce all in an attempt to pick the perfect squash. Some of that nonsense is in vain, but some of it will help you on your way to the very best winter squash! While different varieties of squash use slightly varying picking methods, these overall tips will help you pick any winter variety.The Press Test: A winter squash that has been picked at the right time will be solid. There should be no give when you press on them. If there is, it means the flesh inside is rotting. Avoid that squash!

Pretty is Best:  Squash that is bruised or has visible cuts can spell trouble. The squash rind is a great preserver of the flesh inside, but once there’s a way for bacteria to get in, you are opening the door for mold, etc. Find a squash without any visible imperfections {some will have rougher barnacle imperfections that are just fine}.

Stem Clues: The stem on a great squash will be dry and cork-like. Avoid squash with wet or squishy corks.
Heavy Does It: The perfect winter squash should feel solid and heavy. Lighter squash means less good guts. Give those squash a good heavy ho and go with the heavier one if it passes all the other tests.

And there you have my fail-proof method to choosing the best winter squash EVER!

Now that you’ve picked the perfect squash, here are some yummy recipes to use it in:

Butternut Squash Salad – A great way to  offset some of the heaviness often associated with winter squash. It also happens to taste so good. {Pin it for Later}

Spaghetti Squash w/ Almonds – Strange pairing? Maybe. Try it and you’ll probably agree it’s the new pb&j! {Pin it for later}

Butternut Squash with Spinach and Pasta – I made this for Thanksgiving last year, and it has quickly become a staple in our house as a yummy main dish.  {Pin it for Later}

Butternut Squash Pasta – This squash recipe is nutrient packed pasta goodness.  {Pin it for Later}

Vegan Hubbard Squash Soup – This recipe alone is a reason to grow hubbard squash.  {Pin it for Later}