squash

Fall

Do You Know Your Winter Squash?

Winter squash are to Fall as tomatoes are to Summer.

Winter squash are to Fall as tomatoes are to Summer. Much like tomatoes, squash are usually considered vegetables, despite the fact that they are actually botanically classified as fruits. And, just like tomatoes, they're unavoidable this season, and come in so many countless varieties that it's hard to keep track of all of them.

I thought I'd sneak in a pop quiz to find out exactly how much you know about Fall's most fetching fruit. I'll shoot you a picture, and you guess the name of the Winter squash. Ready? Let's go!

Thanksgiving

You Won't Miss the Turkey With This Savory Squash Pudding

Planning an almost meatless feast or vegetarian meal this Thanksgiving?


Planning an almost meatless feast or vegetarian meal this Thanksgiving? If you were fretting about a main course that can compete with the bird as the star of the supper, you can stop worrying; I've found one for you!

I'm not sure if any entrée can ever be all things to all people, but this savory bread pudding is as close as it gets. It's wholesome, with kale, butternut squash, and shallots, yet at the same time hearty and satisfying. Want to impress herbivores and carnivores alike? Keep reading.

Fall

In Season: Butternut Squash

Perhaps the most-loved variety of Winter squash, butternut squash is to Thanksgiving what pumpkin is to Halloween: ubiquitous.

Perhaps the most-loved variety of Winter squash, butternut squash is to Thanksgiving what pumpkin is to Halloween: ubiquitous. Reasonably priced and versatile, with a long shelf life, these mild, vibrantly-hued veggies are at their best during the cold days ahead. When selecting, look for squash free of bruises, feel heavy for their size, and have a matte skin. Those with wider necks and smaller bulbs will have the most flesh. Because of its rigid exterior, butternut squash has an extended shelf life, and storing it for longer — up to a month, unrefrigerated, in a cool, dark place — can bring out its sweetness. Once peeled, the vegetable will keep for up to a week if covered tightly in the fridge. Learn how to make the most of it when you keep reading.

recipes

Stuffed Squash Two Ways — Beginner and Expert

If you're attending a potluck this Thanksgiving and have been assigned to bring a side, be sure to pick something that's classic yet breaks just enough from the norm, so you know there won't be repeated dishes on the table.


If you're attending a potluck this Thanksgiving and have been assigned to bring a side, be sure to pick something that's classic yet breaks just enough from the norm, so you know there won't be repeated dishes on the table.

Why not spring for the always stress-free and elegant course known as stuffed squash? Keep it simple and fill the gourd with an Italian-inspired medley of sausage, garlic, peppers, and cheese. Alternately, add another layer of texture by simmering couscous, then fluffing it into a sweet-savory dressing of ground beef, onions, cranberries, and walnuts. For a Thanksgiving side — or everyday meal! — that's sophisticated yet straightforward, keep reading.

recipes

Fast & Easy Dinner: Italian-Style Spaghetti Squash

If you've never cooked with spaghetti squash, I highly recommend you give it a try.

If you've never cooked with spaghetti squash, I highly recommend you give it a try. Once it's roasted in the oven, the flesh comes off in strands that resemble spaghetti. Treat it as you would pasta and toss with a simple vegetable saute and you've got a carb-free, vegetarian-friendly meal. This recipe is highly versatile, so sub in whatever veggies you have on hand; mushrooms, peppers, even a green like kale would be delicious. Check it out now.

recipes

Monday's Leftovers: Pinto Bean Molé Chili

For dinner tonight, I'm continuing yesterday's veggie streak, making a molé-flavored chili that's so complex, no one will even realize it's a meatless Monday.

For dinner tonight, I'm continuing yesterday's veggie streak, making a molé-flavored chili that's so complex, no one will even realize it's a meatless Monday. I'll start with onions and garlic, add in a ground mixture with chiles, cumin, cinnamon, and other seasonings, and then stir in a bounty of leftover yellow squash, kale, tomatoes, and chocolate for an extra-roasted taste. Unlike most molé dishes, I'll be able to serve it in under an hour. To make this your next homestyle meal, read more

Link Time

Yummy Links: From Ted Allen to Heart-Shaped Watermelons

recipes

Chilled Zucchini Soup Two Ways — Beginner and Expert

I'm a major supporter of soup, and believe in eating it year-round, regardless of the weather.

I'm a major supporter of soup, and believe in eating it year-round, regardless of the weather. Yet I know how some of you can't bear to steam up sun shades with bowls of hot liquid in the Summer. If you fall into the latter category, chilled zucchini soup, with its creamy body and subtle flavor, is just the thing to talk you off the ledge. Add a quick course to the dinner menu when you blend together zucchini, broth, dill, and shredded cheese — or transform it into more of a substantial meal by topping off bowls with cumin-spiced shrimp and tangy cilantro cream. Decide between the two when you read more

summer

Fast & Easy Dinner: Pressed Chicken With Tomatoes

Start your weekend tonight with an elegant, effortless chicken dinner.

Start your weekend tonight with an elegant, effortless chicken dinner. Pressing the meat with a weighted pan ensures a crispy crust on the outside and an intensely juicy interior. After the chicken is cooked, tomatoes, garlic, and yellow squash are sautéed in the poultry's flavorful juices.

The recipe calls for fresh marjoram, but if you don't have access to this herb, substitute fresh oregano. A simple green salad with a tangy red-wine vinaigrette is a nice accompaniment. To serve this with a chilled glass of rosé, you'll need the recipe. Get it now and read more

recipes

Monday's Leftovers: Pappardelle With Squash & Spinach

If you're looking for a way to use leftover butternut squash or homemade pappardelle, consider this mouthwatering recipe.

If you're looking for a way to use leftover butternut squash or homemade pappardelle, consider this mouthwatering recipe.

It's nutritious, with cubes of butternut squash and tender leaves of baby spinach. Sage and shiitakes lend a subtle earthiness, which is complemented by a nutty element from browned butter and parmesan cheese.

To enjoy this fresh pasta dish, read more