Succulent Summer Sqush

Summer squash season is in full swing and these sweet and tender veggies are readily available at the Watsonville Certified Farmer’s Market.

Summer is the perfect time for squash lovers, when the most sweet and succulent varieties are in season; patty pan, yellow crook neck, baby zucchini, and more. Chock full of vitamins A and C, summer squash are more than just delicious, they’re nutritious to boot! Native to the Americas, these versatile and abundant veggies can be enjoyed in a variety of delicious ways.  Chop up a couple of different squash varieties, mix them together and lightly sauté with butter and garlic, or toss them raw, right into a green salad. Grilled, stuffed, pickled, fried, sautéed, or just plain raw, summer squash is the perfect side to any meal.

Since the culinary possibilities are endless, squash can be eaten for days on end with nary a repeated dish. This is convenient since when squash is in season, it is unbelievably prolific, making it an affordable choice. Pick up some patty pan squash, easily recognized by it's yellow color and scalloped edges, and try this simple preparation:  Scoop out the center, mix with garlic and herbs and spoon back into the shell for a tasty Hors d'œuvre. Or, grab some zucchini, hollow out the center like a canoe, and give it the same treatment as the stuffed patty pan.

Sadly, summer squash season only lasts a couple of months, so head out to the Watsonville Certified Farmer’s Market, gab up some squash and fire up your grill and toss on some squash to accompany your steaks, chicken and hot dogs, or just chop them up, set them out on the picnic table and eat em’ raw!

Shopping at the farmers market is a wonderful way to connect with your community, support local farmers, and eat seasonally.

The Watsonville Certified Farmer's Market is held 3-7 pm every Friday on the corner of Peck and Main streets. The market is open rain or shine.