Everything you need to know about preserving autumn squash: seasonal tips and recipes
Butternut squash, pumpkin, spaghetti… Anti-waste tips 🥗 Comforting Recipes Smart budget
Why store squash properly?
Autumn marks the return of squash in all its forms: butternut squash, pumpkin, spaghetti squash, and other colorful varieties invade the shelves. They are synonymous with comfort, velvety recipes, and hearty dishes. But did you know that a poorly stored squash can quickly spoil, lose its flavor, or even go moldy in a matter of days? Taking care when storing them means avoiding waste, enjoying their soft flesh for longer, and gaining flavor and cooking pleasure 🥗.
In this article, I'll explain how to recognize fresh squash, where and how to store it at home, and I'll also share my best tips for making sure every piece tastes great in the kitchen. You'll also discover recipe ideas and links for more information, such as on our recipe page of the week !
Ideas for cooking squash
Autumn squash is ultra versatile: roasted, in soup, in gratin, in desserts, or even in smoothies! Its slightly sweet taste is a hit with the whole family. To save time, you can steam it and then blend it for creamy soups. Oven-roasted butternut squash cubes with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of paprika make a quick side dish for fall evenings, while spaghetti squash is a stunning addition to veggie Bolognese dishes.
Plus, squash loves to be paired with mild spices, cheese, nuts, or bacon. You can even add it to comforting summer barbecue dishes by grilling it and serving it with homemade sauces (check out the special grill selection on Neary 🔥).
Tips for Storing Fall Squash
Choose a fresh squash
- Preference for whole squash with a hard skin, without soft spots or cuts.
- The stalk should be dry, firm, and not softened.
- The squash should feel heavy for its size, a sign of dense, not dried-out flesh.
Optimal storage
- Store your whole squash in a cool, dry place (between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius), away from direct light. A cellar or the bottom of the pantry is ideal.
- Place them on a crate or clean cloth to limit moisture. Avoid piling them up to avoid damaging the skin.
- Never put whole squash in the refrigerator unless it has already been opened.
After cutting: how to store?
- Wrap the pieces in cling film or an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator (least cold part) 🥗.
- Consume within four to five days. If the flesh dries out, this is normal, but watch for mold.
- Also consider freezing raw or cooked cubes for quick recipes all winter long!
Mistakes to avoid
- Never wash your squash before storing it whole: humidity encourages rotting.
- Do not use sealed plastic bags (lack of air = mold growth).
- Avoid storing next to climacteric fruits like apples, which accelerate the ripening of the squash.
Buy your squash wisely and optimize your budget
Squash season generally begins as early as September and lasts until February-March, depending on the variety and region. Favor local markets, producers, or organic baskets for maximum freshness and to support local agriculture. Squash can easily be stored for several months, so don't hesitate to buy in bulk if you find a good deal!
Budget-wise, squash is one of the most economical vegetables to cook. It's a great way to delight the whole family at a low cost and lends itself to everything from gratins and soups to cakes and even unique desserts. For even more ideas and comparisons of smart cooking equipment, I recommend taking a look at our guide to the best air fryers for making ultra-crispy squash fries!
FAQ
How long does a whole fall squash last?
If stored in the right conditions (cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from light), a whole squash can be stored for several weeks to several months depending on the variety. Butternut squash and pumpkins are particularly hardy!
Can you freeze all squash?
Yes, most squash freezes very well, whether raw in cubes or cooked into a puree. Just blanch them quickly if you want to retain their color and texture after thawing.
How to cook a cut squash?
Cut it into cubes or strips and use it quickly in soups, stir-fries, gratins or even in vitamin-packed smoothies. For easy mixing, discover our selection of blenders .
Can you eat the skin of a squash?
For pumpkin, yes! It becomes tender when cooked. For butternut squash or spaghetti squash, it's best to remove it after cooking for more tenderness.
Any original recipe ideas for a change from soup?
Try barbecue-style roasted squash (find inspiration in our grill collection ), squash quiche, or pumpkin pancakes. And for a change every week, check out our seasonal recipes !
Comments (0)
There are no comments for this article. Be the first one to leave a message!