Figure A Squash Produce expert Donovan Fandre shows how to choose, store and use squash. Summer squashes have a thin skin. Chayote has a melon-like interior and tastes more like a cucumber. Crookneck and zucchini are available most of the year because they are often grown in hothouses. Winter varieties have a harder shell.
Pumpkins are the best-known winter squash.
Nutrition Summer squashes are high in vitamins A and C and niacin. When buying zucchini, look for smooth, green skin and no sign of shriveling or bruising. The smaller ones taste better than the larger ones. Large zucchini tends to be dried out and mealy. When purchasing winter squash, look for firm, heavy squash with no blemishes.