November 03, 2014 at 2:55 PM
Winter squash come in many colors, sizes and shapes, but all varieties are characterized by hard outer rinds that surround sweet, often orange flesh. Winter squash ripen in the fall, one of the last vegetables off the vine, and can be stored up to two months. Pumpkins are a kind of winter squash, as are Acorn, Delicata, Turban, Spaghetti and more. These hard- shelled vegetables must be cooked and they're usually baked or steamed, then sometimes puréed, as in pumpkin pie. The sweetness and nutty richness as well as nutrient value of winter squash make them a splendid addition to November menus. One tip when shopping- select squash that are heavy for their size! Our FARMSTANDS like Lone Pine, Orondo Cider Works, Smallwoods, Preys and Sunshine Farms are open in November and offer beautiful winter squash.