13 Delicata Squash Recipes + Produce Guide (2024)

FAQs

How many squash does a delicata plant produce? ›

Aim to have no more than 4 or 5 fruit developing on each vine. Any more and you may find the flavor is lacking come harvest time. Many growers find squash to be very unruly plants.

It is also known as peanut squash, Bohemian squash, or sweet potato squash.

Delicata Squash Defining Qualities & History

It was rare to find it on the shelves of grocery stores or in many restaurants. This is actually because delicata squash was once prone to mildew diseases in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The nutrients in delicata squash

You can count on a good dose of fiber, vitamin A (from carotenoids), lutein, potassium, and folate, all for around 80 calories per cup. And delicatas are smaller than some winter squashes, so they're perfect for a dinner for one or two.

Squash. If you're looking for a vegetable to plant in the summer, squash is definitely one to consider. Generally, squash plants grow between 5 and 25 pounds of produce, depending on what type of squash you plant. If you are planting squash, be sure to plant them between three and eight feet apart from one another.

Where are Delicata Squash Plants Cultivated? In an area that receives full sunlight throughout the day, seeds should be placed into mounds of dirt at a depth of one inch, with one to six seeds planted into each mound.

As with any food, taking note of any unusual reaction, such as itching or swelling, is important, but there are no known problems with the delicata squash. However, because of its fiber content, too much could cause flatulence.

The delicata is actually named for its delicate, edible skin, so there is no need for peeling here. The rind of these cylindrical, striped vegetables is similar in texture to a summer squash like zucchini, and becomes perfectly tender when cooked.

The truth is, butternut squash and other similar winter squash varieties (such as acorn squash, delicata and hubbard squash), fall somewhere in between starchy and non-starchy vegetables.

"Squash contains a toxin known as Cucurbitacin E, which can give the squash a bitter taste. If too much of the toxin is consumed it can cause illness. It is rare, but if the squash has a bitter taste, stop eating it, and grab another one."

What is a fun fact about Delicata squash? ›

The delicata squash is sometimes referred to as a sweet potato squash or a peanut squash. It's delicate flesh can be eaten- there is no need to peel the fruit. However, this squash does not store quite as well as heartier varieties like acorn and butternut.

Butternut Squash

In addition to vitamins A and C, butternut squash is also rich in carotenoid plant pigments and minerals like potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Like acorn squash, butternut squash can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, such as baked goods, grain dishes, and soups.

The good fiber-rich carbs in delicata squash provide longer-lasting energy, more stable blood sugars, and fiber-driven heart protection. The bad fiber-depleted carbs in most processed foods, on the other hand, tend to cause spikes in blood sugar levels, which can trigger hunger and lead to food cravings.

Storage tips: Winter Squash is best stored between 55-65 degrees, however, Delicata squash does not store quite as well as heartier varieties like Acorn and Butternut. Place in a cool dry room in your house (do not refrigerate) and it should last 3 months.

Squash plants produce both male and female flowers, so in theory one plant is enough to ensure pollination. But from experience I can tell you that pollination and fruit set is so much better if you have more than one squash plant growing in the same area. Two is great – three, four or five is even better!

The best varieties for squash trellising are delicata, acorn, zucchini, and yellow summer. The smaller squashes and gourds do well but winter squash, like turban and butternut, can become too heavy and large for a successful vertical garden without additional support.

If direct–sowing, plant two to three seeds per hole, 1 inch deep. Select a location that receives full sun and has plenty of space for sprawling vines. Most winter squash need 50 to 100 square feet to spread.