Crookneck squash facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cucurbita pepo'Yellow crookneck' |
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Crookneck squash along with other types of squash
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| Species | Cucurbita pepo |
| Cultivar | Yellow crookneck |
| Origin | Eastern North America |
| Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz) | |
|---|---|
| Energy | 19 kcal (79 kJ) |
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3.9 g
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| Dietary fiber | 1.0 g |
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0.3 g
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Protein
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1.0 g
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| Vitamins | Quantity
%DV†
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| Riboflavin (B2) |
3%
0.04 mg |
| Vitamin C |
23%
19 mg |
| Minerals | Quantity
%DV†
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| Potassium |
7%
222 mg |
| Other constituents | Quantity |
| Water | 94 g |
| †Percentages estimated using US recommendations for adults. | |
Crookneck squash, often called yellow squash, is a special type of plant. It belongs to the Cucurbita pepo family. This family also includes many other popular vegetables like some pumpkins and most other summer squashes.
Crookneck squash plants grow in a bushy shape. They do not spread out widely like some other squash or pumpkin plants. People usually eat crookneck squash as a summer vegetable. You can easily spot it by its bright yellow skin, which might be smooth or have small bumps. Inside, it has sweet, yellow flesh. Its most famous feature is its unique curved stem-end, which looks like a "crooked neck."
It is important not to confuse this squash with other types that also have a "crookneck" in their name. For example, some winter squashes like 'Golden Cushaw' or the vining summer squash 'Tromboncino' are different. Crookneck squash is also different from the straightneck squash, which is usually yellow but has a straight neck. There is even a similar-looking C. pepo variety that is not meant for eating, called C. pepo var. ovifera.
Contents
Growing and Harvesting Crookneck Squash
Crookneck squash is a fun vegetable to grow in your garden! It grows best in warm weather, which is why it is called a "summer squash."
When to Pick Your Squash
Yellow crookneck squash is usually picked when it is still young. This means it is harvested before it gets too big, usually when it is less than two inches wide. If you let it grow too large, its skin becomes tough. The quality of the squash also gets worse as it fully matures. So, picking them young ensures they are tender and delicious!
Where Did it Come From?
This interesting squash first came from Eastern North America. Native American communities have been growing and enjoying different types of squash for thousands of years. They were among the first to cultivate these plants, making them an important part of their diet and culture.
How to Enjoy Crookneck Squash
Crookneck squash is a versatile vegetable. This means you can use it in many different ways in the kitchen!
Cooking Ideas
You can enjoy crookneck squash in various dishes. It is great sliced and sautéed with a little olive oil. You can also roast it in the oven until it is tender and slightly browned. Many people add it to stir-fries or use it in casseroles. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that goes well with many other foods.
Nutritional Benefits
As you can see from the nutrition facts, crookneck squash is a healthy choice. It has a lot of water, which helps keep you hydrated. It is also low in calories and fat. This squash provides some fiber, which is good for your digestion. It also contains important vitamins like Vitamin C and minerals like potassium, which are good for your body.
