101 Squash

Look for delicious, healthful winter squash varieties at Hy-Vee in early autumn through mid-winter. Try roasting to highlight their slightly sweet, nutty flavor.

Winter squash earned their name because, while they’re harvested in autumn, most can be stored throughout winter thanks to their tough skin and hard flesh. Technically classified as a fruit, winter squash are packed with nutrients such as Vitamin C, fiber and beta carotene.

Squash seeds are also edible and make a tasty snack. Wash and dry the seeds, sprinkle with seasoning and roast at 300°F until seeds are just starting to brown, about 20 minutes.

Buy

a squash that feels heavy for its size with a hard skin free of bruises, cracks and soft spots.

whole, fresh squash in a cool, dry place for up to one month. Refrigerate sliced or cubed squash.

Store

by carefully slicing squash in half lengthwise and removing seeds. To peel the tough skins, pierce the squash with a knife and microwave up to 4 minutes to soften.