Squash

The early European explorers of the New World were delighted to find what they thought were melons growing wild wherever they went. These were not melons, in fact, but squashes, members of the same family (Cucurbita pepo sp.), which also includes pumpkins, cucumbers, gourds, loofahs, zucchini, and chayotes. Remains of squash dating from 7000bce have been found in Central and South America.

The word “squash” is believed to derive from the Algonquian words “askoot asquash,” meaning “eaten green.” New varieties of squash are constantly being bred or evolve naturally. That is because squash blossoms can be either male or female and are pollinated by bees and other insects. Squashes are subdivided into summer and winter squashes. Both types are now available throughout the year, but summer squashes are picked at a younger stage, and in general the seeds are smaller and the whole vegetable, including seeds and skin, may be eaten.