Region of Origin
Commodity:
Baby Squash
Description & Origin
Summer squash refers to a diverse array of squash cultivars in the species Cucurbita pepo that are harvested when fully-grown but still young, while their skin is still tender and edible (this distinguishes them from pumpkins, which are technically the same species). Baby squash are exactly what they sound like: summer squash varieties harvested when still at the baby stage, usually at 10 centimet...
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Baby squash offers a similar nutritional value as mature squash. It is a source of dietary fiber, magnesium, and vitamins including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin K.
Our Varieties
Squash Baby Pattypan
AKA: Baby Green Summer Squash
Description
Baby pattypan squash is a green-skinned summer squash variety. It is round and squat, shaped like a UFO, with wavy, scalloped edges that give it a very distinctive appearance. Baby pattypan are typically harvested at 1 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter. They have a sweet and nutty flavor. The flavorful flesh is often a light golden yellow color.
Variety Tips & Tricks
Baby pattypan is excellent on its own, but is especially fun when included with a mix of baby squash varieties.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Squash Baby Sunburst
Description
Baby sunburst squash has a similar appearance to pattypan squash – an adorable UFO-like with wavy ridges along the outer edge – typically harvested at 1 ½ to 3 inches. But sunburst squash has a sunny, glossy yellow color that brightens up any and all dishes. Like pattypan, sunburst have a light golden flesh with a mild, nutty squash flavor. Their vivid color is punctuated by the green stem and circle of green around the blossom end for an even more striking appearance.
Variety Tips & Tricks
The saturated yellow color of baby sunburst has made them the most popular commercially available variety. They can be used on their own, but look especially striking when combined with green baby squash on the plate.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Squash Baby Zucchini
AKA: Mini Courgette
Description
Baby zucchini look just like your typically green zucchini in miniature, harvested at an average of just 3 to 4 inches in length. Baby zucchini has a dark green, lightly mottled skin and a tender stem that can be eaten along with the squash itself. The flavor is lightly pepper with complex vegetal notes.
Variety Tips & Tricks
Baby zucchini is both simple to prepare and serve. It can be used whole or halved lengthwise to preserve its charming appearance. Their flavor is actually more complex than their adult counterparts.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Baby squash’s adorable size makes them an excellent choice for upscale plating. Thanks to its tender skin, seedlessness, and sweet flavor, baby squash is ideal for raw applications including crudité or snack boards. They can be cooked in the same ways as fully-grown summer squash, although they can be more delicate and require less cooking time. They are excellent steamed, grilled, roasted, or sautéed. Their petite and consistent size helps make portioning extremely efficient and adds a sense of occasion to a plate. A catering favorite!
Flavor Pairings
Lemon, Garlic, Beans, Corn, Chile Pepper, Sweet Potato, Onion, Basil, Butter, Feta, Chicken, Ham
How to Prepare
Wash baby squash before use. The skin is edible and they do not need to be peeled. Baby squash are most often used whole or halved to preserve their unique appearance.
How to Store in the Kitchen
Baby squash must be kept refrigerated in the original container until immediately before use to maximize shelf life.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
Try pickling baby squash to preserve for later use.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
41-50°F
RECOMMENDED TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
40-54°F (Cool Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
Yes - storage at temperatures below 41°F may cause chilling injury.
RELATIVE HUMIDITY
95%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
No
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE
Yes- Medium
ETHYLENE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Do not store near ethylene producing items, as it may result in discoloration and reduced shelf life of the squash.
Quality Assessment
Baby squash should be firm with smooth skin. Avoid softness, excessive wrinkling, or spots of decay
Important Handling
Handle baby squash gently and according to guidelines at all times as they can be easily damaged due to their thin skin and tender flesh.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, baby squash may last up to 5-7 days.