Acorn squash (Cucurbita pepo) is the most widely available of small winter squash and one of the most attractive, but it is one of the least likely to be rewarding. At best, commercial cultivars are merely smooth and sweetish; more often, they are bland and fibrous. Glamorous golden and forest green Acorns are typically tasteless, despite their glowing good looks. Some cream-skinned cultivars have come closer to the flavorful green varieties of the past (which were phased out because they were not compatible with commercial sizing requirements). Follow selection guidelines to the letter, and there’s a chance of finding goodness. Farmers’ markets generally offer more in the way of tasty varieties.
