The term "summer" and "winter" for squash are only based on current usage, not on actuality. "Summer" types are on the market all winter; and "Winter" types are on the markets in the late summer and fall, as well as winter. Thus, the terms "summer" and "winter" are deceptive and confusing. This terminology was never meant to confuse - it just dates back to a time when the seasons were more crucial to man's survival than they are now. "Good keepers" became known as winter vegetables if they would "keep" until December.

SUMMER SQUASH

Description:

The delicate flavor, soft shell and creamy white flesh of summer squash is a perfect addition to any summer meal. Once only available in the summer, they are now available throughout the year; however, they are in season between May and July when they are at their best and most readily available.

Summer squash, members of the Cucurbitaceous family and relatives of both the melon and the cucumber, come in many different varieties. While each type varies in shape, color, size and flavor, they all share some common characteristics. The entire vegetable, including its flesh, seeds and skin, is edible. In addition, some varieties of the squash plant produce edible flowers. Unlike winter squash, summer squash are more fragile and cannot be stored for long periods of time.

Summer squash are a subset of squashes that are harvested when immature (while the rind is still tender and edible). All summer squashes are the fruits of the species Cucurbit pepo (although not all squashes of this species are considered summer squashes), but they are considered vegetables in terms of culinary use. The name "summer squash" refers to the short storage life of these squashes, unlike that of winter squashes.

Nutritional profile:

Summer squash is an excellent source of manganese and vitamin C. It is also a very good source of magnesium, vitamin A, dietary fiber, potassium, copper, folate, and phosphorus. In addition, summer squash is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, calcium, zinc, niacin, and protein.

List of some summer squashes:

• Cousa squash
• Pattypan squash (aka. "Scallop squash")
• Yellow crookneck squash
• Yellow summer squash
• Zucchini (courgette in French and in some regional varieties English)
• Chayote
• Globe squash
• Scallopini
• Snake gourd
• Tinda
• Vegetable marrow.

WINTER SQUASH

Description:

Winter squash (Australia: pumpkin) is a summer-growing annual vegetable, representing several species within the genus Cucurbit. It differs from summer squash in that it is harvested and eaten in the mature fruit stage, when the seeds within have matured fully and the skin has hardened into a tough rind. At this stage, most varieties of this fruit can be stored for use during the winter. It is generally cooked before eating.

Winter squash can be harvested whenever the fruits have turned a deep, solid color and the skin is hard. Most of the crop is harvested in September or October (Northern Hemisphere), before heavy frosts hit the planting area.

Winter squash comes in shapes round and elongated, scalloped and pear-shaped with flesh that ranges from golden-yellow to brilliant orange. Most winter squashes are vine-type plants whose fruits are harvested when fully mature. They take longer to mature than summer squash (3 months or more) and are best harvested once the cool weather of fall sets in. They can be stored for months in a cool basement-hence the name "winter" squash.

Nutritional profile:

Winter squash is an excellent source of Vitamin A. Winter squash is also rich in complex carbohydrates such as starch and fiber. Anti-cancer properties are also found in winter squash. It contains a range of health promoting nutrients like iron, niacin, potassium, beta carotene and is also known to be good for lung health.

List of some winter squashes:

• Acorn squash
• Ambercup squash
• Autumn cup squash
• Banana squash
• Butternut squash
• Buttercup squash
• Carnival squash
• Delicata squash
• Fairytale pumpkin squash
• Gold nugget squash
• Hubbard squash
• Kabocha squash
• Spaghetti squash
• Sweet dumpling squash
• Turban squash.