Days to Maturity: 95 to 100
The old folks call it sweet potato squash for its rich, sugary, tender flavor, and you will see what they mean with the very 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.
These Delicata squash reach about 7 to 9 inches long and up to 4 inches in diameter, and they arise quite freely on vigorous vines. Delicata has a fabulous storage ability, bringing you great eating all winter.
Grow Delicata like summer squash (sow the seeds 1 inch deep after all danger of frost), but the plants should be spaced 4 to 6 feet apart. Harvest it when the plants die back or just before frost. Cut and cure the fruit in a well-ventilated area, then store at 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
