Best Way to Store Squash

Variety of squash

Nothing tastes better than fresh, homegrown squash. If our garden produces an abundant harvest, or we get a great deal at the market on squash, we often find ourselves with more than we can use up at the time. Luckily, squash is a vegetable that can be stored for quite a while before it needs to be used up. The important thing is knowing how to store it so it retains its freshness and taste.

Things You'll Need

• Airtight plastic bags Cool area of the home Steamer Freezer Freezer bags Refrigerator

Instructions

Storing Summer Squash

1. Summer squash is tender and has thinner skin than winter squash, so handling it gently is crucial. Squash needs cool temperatures accompanied by high humidity. Summer squash (zucchini, yellow, spaghetti to name a few) will keep well in the refrigerator, either as is or in a plastic bag. If you are storing the squash whole, make sure it is clean as dirt can promote decay. Squash can keep this way for up to a week.

2. If you cut the summer squash before storing it, clean all dirt from the skin and cut away nicks and bruises that can cause decay. Cut the squash into manageable pieces and store it in a plastic bag. This way you can store the squash for four to five days.

3. If you desire to freeze summer squash, slice it into 1/2 inch pieces and steam it for four minutes. Drain and seal in airtight freezer bags. Squash will keep for up to 10 months in the freezer.

Storing Winter Squash

1. Winter squash is much hardier than summer squash. It thrives in cool weather also, and can keep for up to a month in a cool area of your home, such as cellar steps or an unheated porch. Winter squash can be stored as is in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

2. If you desire to cut your winter squash before storing it, seal it in an airtight plastic bag and keep it in the refrigerator. It will keep for two to four days.

3. To freeze winter squash before storing it, you should cook it first. Cut it into pieces and boil or bake it. Puree, mash or chunk it and seal it in airtight freezer bags. Cooked and frozen, winter squash will last for up to a year.

Tips & Warnings

• Handle squash gently, as nicks and bruises can promote faster decay.

• When selecting squash from a market or grocer, look for shiny (unwaxed) skin. Dull skin means the squash is already past its prime.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• More information on the health benefits of squash, as well as selection and storage tips