Named for its delicate tender skin, the delicata squash measures about 5-6 inches in length and 2-3 inches in diameter. It has a long narrow shape and a grooved skin with lines that run the length of the squash. The skin is creamy yellow with green, and sometimes orange, vertical stripes. When cooked, the flavor is sweet, rich, and moist, similar to a sweet potato.
The thin skin of a delicata is easy to slice and is also edible when cooked, so it does not to be peeled prior to eating. Since the delicata holds its shape well through cooking, it is an excellent choice for stuffing with grains, meats or cheese.
Delicata squash provides vitamins A and C, some of the B-vitamins, potassium, and fiber. The deeper yellow and orange flesh provides the most beta carotene.
Delicata are in the winter squash family, so they keep well at room temperature. However, since the skin is thinner than some of the other winter varieties, use your delicata sooner than later.