With fall officially here, zucchini, crooknecks, and other summer squash have given way to their hardier cousins: winter squash. As the days get shorter, these members of Cucurbitaceae or gourd family, such as pumpkins, kabochas, and butternuts, are reliable go-tos at the farmers market.
One of the “Three Sisters” (three staple agricultural crops native to North America, alongside beans and corn), winter squash can be found in various colors, sizes, and flavors. The flesh of winter squash is sweeter and much denser than their more watery summer counterparts, making them a belly-filling basis for soups, roasted vegetable dishes, and pies. Their seeds can be roasted and enjoyed, too, as in pepitas.
Here are some common hard squash (and a few less common favorites) you’ll find at the farmers market this time of year.