Uses for summer squash are varied and they can be steamed, baked, sautéed, grilled, roasted or fried. They can also be used in soups, stews, and casseroles. Early in the season when the skin is thin, there is no need to peel these squash, simply core and slice before cooking.
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 (wh.foods.com).
GLOBE
Globe squash is a fun heirloom summer squash with its round shape and green or bright yellow skin with green ends. SpecialtyProduce.com says "this squash is a culinary hit with chefs" and goes on to describe the globe squash as a gourmet French squash that is popular in France, Italy and North Africa.
Globe squash is the perfect size and proportion for stuffing. It may also be baked, steamed, sautéed or grilled.
YELLOW
Yellow squash is a long slender squash that ranges in color from pale to bright yellow/gold and may have a straight or crooked neck. It is thin-skinned with creamy white flesh. The entire squash including the seeds are edible.
Yellow squash can be boiled (whole or sliced), grilled, fried, sautéed, baked and included in numerous soups and casseroles. Fortunately, since yellow squash is so prolific, it may also be frozen for use when it's no longer in season.
PATTY PAN
Patty pan or scallop squash was introduced into the United States in 1914. It has to be the cutest variety of squash with its unusual scalloped edges. Patty pan can be white, light green or bright yellow with green ends. It is said that patty pan squash has a smooth almost buttery taste.
ZUCCHINI
Zucchini is a long slender summer squash with mottled dark and light green skin to almost blackish green in color. Inside it has creamy white flesh. It is thin-skinned and the entire vegetable is edible.
TROMBETTA DI ALBENGA
Trombetta di Albenga is an Italian heirloom squash whose name means "little trumpet". It is easily recognized by its long curved trombone/trumpet shape usually enlarged at one end. It can grow up to 30" or so in length, but is best if picked when about 12 to 15 inches. According to Renee's Garden, who sells the seeds, this climbing Italian summer squash has a delicate mild taste with a hint of nutty artichoke flavor. The flesh is seedless, firm and doesn't get watery or mushy like some other summer squashes tend to do.
