Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the vibrant world of summer squash? This amazing veggie comes in a bunch of shapes, sizes, and colors, making it a super fun addition to your garden or dinner plate. Let's explore some popular summer squash varieties, complete with pictures and names, so you can easily identify them and pick your favorites!

What is Summer Squash?

Before we jump into the specifics, let's clarify what exactly summer squash is. Unlike their winter counterparts, summer squash are harvested when they're young and tender. This means their skin is thin and edible, and the seeds are soft. You don't need to peel or deseed them, making them incredibly convenient to cook with. They are called summer squash because they are harvested during summer!

Summer squash are known for their mild, delicate flavor. This makes them incredibly versatile in the kitchen. They can be grilled, sautéed, roasted, steamed, or even eaten raw in salads. Their high water content also makes them refreshing on a hot summer day.

From a nutritional standpoint, summer squash are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and potassium. They're also low in calories, making them a healthy choice for any meal. Plus, growing your own summer squash is surprisingly easy, even for beginner gardeners!

Popular Summer Squash Varieties

Alright, let's get to the fun part! Here's a rundown of some of the most popular types of summer squash, complete with descriptions and pictures to help you identify them:

1. Zucchini

Zucchini is probably the most well-known of all summer squash. It's typically dark green, long, and cylindrical, but you can also find golden zucchini varieties. The flesh is pale green to white and has a very mild flavor.

Zucchinis are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. You can grill them, sauté them, bake them into bread, or even spiralize them into noodles! Their mild flavor makes them a great addition to almost any dish. Plus, they're super easy to grow, so you'll often find yourself with an abundance of them during the summer months. When selecting zucchinis, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

2. Yellow Squash (Crookneck and Straightneck)

Yellow squash comes in two main types: crookneck and straightneck. Both have bright yellow skin and a slightly sweeter flavor than zucchini.

Crookneck squash has a curved neck, giving it a distinctive appearance. Its skin is often bumpy and textured. Straightneck squash, on the other hand, has a straighter, more uniform shape. Both types are delicious and can be used interchangeably in recipes. They are often found together at farmers markets, especially the yellow squash. These summer squash are fantastic when sautéed with butter and herbs, or roasted alongside other vegetables. Their slightly sweet flavor pairs well with savory dishes. When choosing yellow squash, look for ones that are firm and have a vibrant yellow color. Avoid any with green spots or soft areas. Store them in the refrigerator and use them within a few days for the best flavor and texture.

3. Pattypan Squash

Pattypan squash are unique in their shape, resembling small flying saucers. They come in various colors, including green, yellow, and white. They have a delicate, slightly nutty flavor.

These adorable summer squash are perfect for stuffing, roasting, or grilling. Their unique shape makes them a fun addition to any plate. The smaller ones are especially tender and delicious. Pattypan squash are also a good source of vitamins and minerals. When selecting pattypan squash, look for ones that are small to medium in size, as the larger ones can be tougher. Choose those that are firm and have a smooth, unblemished surface. Store them in the refrigerator and use them within a few days for the best quality.

4. Tromboncino Squash

Tromboncino squash is an Italian heirloom variety known for its long, curved neck and bulbous end. It has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a smooth, pale green skin.

This summer squash is a vigorous grower and can be trained to climb a trellis, making it a great option for small gardens. It's delicious roasted, grilled, or used in soups and stews. As it matures, the skin becomes tougher, and it can be stored for longer periods. When harvesting tromboncino squash, you can pick it when it's young and tender like a summer squash, or let it mature and use it as a winter squash. Look for firm, smooth squash with no blemishes. Store in a cool, dry place.

5. Cousa Squash

Cousa squash is a popular variety in Middle Eastern cuisine. It's small, round, and has a pale green color. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture.

These summer squash are often stuffed with rice, meat, and spices, then cooked in a flavorful broth. They're also delicious grilled or roasted. Cousa squash are a good source of fiber and vitamins. When choosing cousa squash, look for ones that are small to medium in size and feel heavy for their weight. The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes. Store them in the refrigerator and use them within a few days.

Tips for Growing Summer Squash

Want to grow your own summer squash? Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Choose the right variety: Consider your climate, space, and taste preferences when selecting which summer squash varieties to grow.
• Provide plenty of sunlight: Summer squash need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
• Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize: Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant yields.
• Watch out for pests and diseases: Common pests include squash bugs and squash vine borers. Diseases like powdery mildew can also be a problem. Take action early to prevent or control these issues.

Cooking with Summer Squash

Now that you can identify different types of summer squash, let's talk about how to cook with them! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Grilling: Slice summer squash lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender and slightly charred.
• Sautéing: Dice summer squash and sauté with garlic, onions, and other vegetables.
• Roasting: Toss summer squash with olive oil, herbs, and spices, then roast in the oven until tender.
• Steaming: Steam summer squash until tender-crisp.
• Raw: Slice or dice summer squash and add it to salads or serve with dips.
• Baking: Use shredded zucchini in muffins, breads, and cakes.

Delicious Summer Squash Recipe Ideas

To help you get started with cooking summer squash, here are a couple of super simple and yummy recipes:

1. Grilled Zucchini with Lemon and Herbs: Slice zucchini lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano. This is the easiest recipe for using summer squash.
2. Sautéed Yellow Squash with Corn and Tomatoes: Dice yellow squash, corn kernels, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until tender. This is a tasty side dish for any summer meal.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to summer squash varieties, complete with pictures and names! Hopefully, this has inspired you to try some new types of summer squash and get creative in the kitchen. Whether you're growing your own or buying them from the store, summer squash are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. Happy cooking, friends!