Squash Bush Delicata

Days To Maturity: 80-100

It's been called Sweet Potato Squash for its rich, sugary, tender flavor, and you will see what they mean with the vey first bite! Delicata is the absolute best winter squash for long-term storage, but even if it weren't, this yummy vegetable should be at the top of your list for the garden. It's easy to grow, nutritious, and a terrific value!

Weighing in at 1 to 1½ pounds each, these lozenge-shaped loaves are white to cream, with grooves and dark green stripes and flecks. Inside, the flesh is golden-orange, with a central seed cavity. To cook delicata, simply slice the fruit lengthwise and steam or bake it right in its "shell"; it also works well on the grill, because the rind is tough enough to hold together and impart a smoky flavor. The flesh can also be scooped out and pureed or chopped before cooking, of course. It has a nutty, sweet flavor. And you can even roast the seeds like pumpkin seeds!