Squash come in different shape, sizes, and colors. You may see squash at your local market labeled as "Summer" and "Winter". Both types grow during the summer, but winter squash are larger,have thicker skins, are usually not ripe until fall, and can last through out the winter. Although the difference in taste between varieties of winter squash can be subtle, the difference in texture is remarkable. Low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, squash are an inexpensive healthy choice for a side dish or main entree. Below are some common varieties of winter squash you may find at your local store:

Acorn - like it's name suggests this squash is acorn shaped, and is dark green in color. This squash has sweet yellow orange flesh is excellent stuffed and baked.

---

Banana- these squashes can grow up to 4 feet in length and 12 inches in diameter, and weigh up to 70 lbs! Banana squash come in hues of blue, pink, and orange and you'll often find them for sale cut into smaller pieces.

---

Butternut-is beige in color and has a bell shape. This variety is sweet and has a rich nutty flavor. It is a favorite for soups because of its smooth creamy flesh.

---

Cushaw- traditionally grown through out Appalachia, this squash is featured in many Appalachian recipes. This squash has a curved neck and beautiful green stripes.

---

Delicata - also known as "peanut squash" for its elongated shape. This squash also has lovely stripes, and is usually between 1 - 2 lbs. This squash has a nutty flavor and fine creamy texture.

---

Hubbard- named after Bela Hubbard from Randolph Township, OH. This squash can weigh up to 50 lbs, but most you will find for sale will be medium sized and is either dark green or light blue. This squash is very sweet, and makes an excellent pie. This squash also has extra thick skin making it easy to store over winter.

---

Spaghetti- this squash ranges from 4 to 8 lbs and is either pale yellow or orange. It has a unique texture that closely resembles golden strands of pasta. This is one of my personal favorites and is an excellent choice for a savory dish.

---

Turban- named for its unusual shape, these squash are often used as festive fall ornaments. They have a sweet taste and can be used for any recipe that calls for pumpkin.

---

Winter squash can be stored from 3 to 6 months. If you grow your own, cut the squash from the vine just before its ripe and let it sit in the sun for 3 to 10 days. You can keep squash in a cool, dry place with temperature range between 40 and 70 degrees. The secret to keeping squash is to handle them gently, and to turn and inspect them every so often to make sure no soft spots or mold are forming.

Pictured: Fall crop vegetables from the October 1940 Pie Town, New Mexico fair. (Courtesy the Library of Congress)