The variety of squashes in the supermarket produce aisle can leave anyone confused. Many wonder what the difference is between a yellow squash and a summer squash. The truth is that yellow squash is actually a type of summer squash. Not all summer squashes are the same, however; thus, the terms "yellow squash" and "summer squash" are not interchangeable. Distinguishing yellow squash from other squashes is easy and will help you find proper ingredients for cooking.
Types of Summer Squash
All summer squashes have thin skin and are harvested in the summer. The most common summer squash is the green zucchini. Other summer squashes include yellow squash, pattypan squash, crookneck squash, chayote squash, opo squash and sunburst squash, according to the LocalHarvest website. Summer squashes are known for being tender with edible seeds.
Finding a Yellow Squash
Yellow squash is often mixed in with other summer squashes. While its color can distinguish it from green summer squashes, like zucchini, there are many other squashes with yellow coloration. Look for a squash that resembles a yellow zucchini. It should be long and straight; sometimes a yellow squash will have pale stripes. The best yellow squashes are slender, as this indicates they have not taken on too much water.
Cooking
Many recipes call for yellow squash. To ensure the best results, it is always best to use the squash listed. However, you can substitute other summer squashes for yellow squash. Since yellow squash is thinner and less dense than several other summer squashes, you may need to adjust cooking times accordingly. Squash contains manganese, vitamin C, some folacin, vitamin A and dietary fiber, the "New York Times" notes. Since summer squash is largely composed of water it contains only 19 calories per cup.
Harvesting
Summer squash can be grown during any snow-free, warm season. It must be harvested while the rind is still soft and the fruit is slightly immature. One yellow squash plant should produce many squashes, yielding several harvests. Since the squashes develop rapidly, the plant must be checked very often. Yellow squash should be picked when it is 6 to 8 inches long. This ensures the squash is not too hard or seedy. If a squash has grown too large, pick it and discard it.
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