Interestingly, winter squashes are actually grown in the summer and harvested in the fall. They tend to have thick skin, allowing them to be stored for several months, so they can be enjoyed throughout the winter. Not only is winter squash a sweet, rich addition to your menu, but it’s also loaded with nutrients, fiber, and healthy omega-3 fat. Ranging in size, shape, color, and flavor, winter squash can be prepared in endless different ways. You can sauté or roast squash for an easy side dish, purée it into soup, bake it into a pie, or make mini calzones. You can even eat the skin of some of the squash varieties. Explore the unique characteristics and flavors of the nine most common types of squash, then try one of these comforting, delicious squash recipes. Great for: Roasting. Scrape out the strands and dress with butter or pasta sauce. Recipe to try: Spaghetti Squash Parmesan Great for: Roasting. Peeling is difficult, so cut it in half or slice it first. (The skin on this type of squash is edible.) Recipe to try: Goat Cheese and Mushroom-Stuffed Acorn Squash Great for: Roasting and soups Recipe to try: Creamy Butternut Squash and Parsnip Soup Great for: Roasting Recipe to try: Goat Cheese and Mushroom-Stuff Squash Great for: Soups Recipe to try: Kabocha Squash Sticky Buns Great for: Roasting and stuffing Recipe to try: Slow-Cooker Squash Lasagna Great for: Baking Recipe to try: Wild Rice and Butternut Squash Bake Great for: Pies, quick breads, pancakes, risottos. Roast or steam, purée, then add to a recipe. Recipes to try: 25 Perfect Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Want to Eat All Year Round
