Butternut squash is a fall favorite, loved for its sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture. But how can you be sure you’re picking a ripe one? Unlike some fruits, you can’t just cut it open at the store and peek inside. Luckily, there are clear signs to look for that tell you exactly when a butternut squash is ripe and ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into how to spot the perfect squash every time!
What Does a Ripe Butternut Squash Look Like?
Color Is Your First Clue
The skin color is the easiest way to tell if a butternut squash is ripe. Look for a rich, deep tan or beige color—think of the shade of a brown paper bag. Avoid any squash with green spots or streaks; those are sure signs it’s not ready yet. Also, if the squash looks very pale or creamy white rather than tan, it’s still immature and won’t have developed its full flavor.
The Skin Should Be Matte, Not Glossy
A ripe butternut squash has a matte finish on its skin. If it looks shiny or glossy, it’s likely still unripe. The skin should also be tough and hard—you shouldn’t be able to pierce it with your thumbnail. If the skin is soft or spongy, the squash is either underripe or possibly starting to spoil.
Feel the Texture: Firm and Heavy Is Best
A ripe butternut squash feels substantial and heavy for its size. When you pick it up, it should not feel light or hollow. This weight indicates that the squash is full of dense, sweet flesh inside. Run your fingers over the surface—there should be no soft spots, dents, or blemishes. Soft areas can mean the squash is overripe or damaged.
Check the Stem: A Small but Mighty Indicator
Don’t overlook the stem! A ripe butternut squash has a dry, brown, and woody stem. If the stem is green or moist, the squash wasn’t fully mature when picked. A firm, corky stem shows the squash has completed its growth cycle and is ready to eat. Also, if the vine on the plant is starting to wither or die back, that’s a good sign the squash is ripe and ready for harvest.
Tap It: The Hollow Sound Test
This might sound unusual, but gently tapping the squash can help you judge ripeness. A ripe butternut squash will produce a hollow sound when tapped. If the sound is dull or flat, the squash might still be immature.
Timing Matters: When to Harvest or Buy
Butternut squash typically takes about 80 to 100 days to mature after planting. If you’re growing your own, keep track of the planting date to estimate when the squash should be ready. For store-bought squash, the same signs above apply. Remember, butternut squash can continue to ripen a bit after harvest if stored properly in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
What If You Picked an Unripe Butternut Squash?
Don’t worry if your squash isn’t quite ready. Butternut squash can continue ripening off the vine. Keep it stored in a cool, dry spot for a few weeks. Over time, the starches inside convert to sugars, making the squash sweeter and creamier. Just be patient and watch for the skin to become uniformly tan and hard.
Quick Tips to Remember When Choosing Butternut Squash
– Color: Deep tan or beige, no green spots
– Skin: Matte and hard, not shiny or soft
– Stem: Dry, brown, and woody
– Weight: Heavy for its size
– Sound: Hollow when tapped
– Storage: Keep unripe squash in a cool, dry place to ripen
How to Store Butternut Squash After Buying
Store your ripe butternut squash in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. It can last for 2 to 3 months if kept properly. Avoid refrigeration unless it has been cut, as cold temperatures can affect the flavor and texture.
Choosing the perfect butternut squash is easy once you know what to look for. Focus on color, texture, stem condition, and weight to pick a squash that will be sweet, creamy, and delicious every time. Happy cooking!