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Florida Squash: A Favorite Available Nearly Year-round
April 2007Squash any notion you have that summer squash is only a warm-weather treat. Thanks to Florida's subtropical climate and the hard work of Florida farmers, you can enjoy fresh zucchini and yellow squash almost every month of the year. Harvest starts in September and continues well into June. No matter the temperature outside, these versatile vegetables are always welcome at the table. They're as tasty in winter stews as they are in summer salads.
Summer squash has such a mild, agreeable flavor that it pleases even the pickiest eaters. It is often described as "nutty" or "buttery," and the texture is tender and satisfying. What's really enticing about squash is that it looks as great as it tastes. Swan-necked or straight-necked, with a bright lemony color, yellow squash has got to be one of the world's most beautiful vegetables. Zucchini is no slouch either. It's slim and cylindrical and its glossy green skin is often flecked with gold.
Both zucchini and yellow squash are harvested before they are fully mature. If allowed to get too big they become tough and bitter tasting so they are usually picked when they are less than eight inches long. The young squash are tender and sweet, with thin, edible rinds and small, soft seeds.
When shopping, choose squash that are small and heavy for their size. Lightweight squash are often cottony and dry. The skin should be firm and shiny and free of nicks, bruises, and soft spots. Because the skin is delicate, you should handle your purchases with care. The shelf life of summer squash is pretty brief. Stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator, it lasts for just two to three days.
Like cucumbers and watermelon, squash is over 90 percent water. The high water content means it is very diet-friendly. Raw zucchini contains only 20 calories per cup, while a cup of raw yellow squash has just 18 calories. For such a watery vegetable, squash is surprisingly nutritious. It's a good source of vitamins A and C, niacin, and potassium.
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