How to Keep a Ripe Squash Fresh

Summer Squash

• 1

  Select summer squash that still has at least ½ inch of the stem attached, as the stem prevents bacteria from entering the vegetable through the harvest scar. If harvesting from the garden, cut the squash from the vine with a sharp knife, leaving at least ½ inch of stem attached.

• 2

  Place the squash in a plastic food storage bag. Close the bag loosely so excess moisture can escape during storage.

• 3

  Store the squash in the refrigerator vegetable drawer for up to two days. Use the squash before it begins to shrivel or develop soft spots.

• 4

  Freeze sliced or shredded squash for storage for up to 6 months. Place the sliced squash in a freezer-safe storage bag and press the air out prior to sealing and freezing.

Winter Squash

• 5

  Select a firm squash with no soft or shrunken spots. Avoid winter squash with cuts on the skin. Winter squash may have the stem attached or it may have a smooth stem scar from where the stem was removed.

• 6

  Place the squash in a cool, dry place, such as in an unheated basement or cool pantry. Avoid areas with freezing temperatures or temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The refrigerator is too moist to store winter squash successfully.

• 7

  Store the winter squash for up to three months. Inspect the vegetables every two weeks during storage and use or dispose of any that begin to develop soft spots.