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General Produce
Squash, Hard Shell, Pumpkins
Receiving Inspecting:
Squash should be heavy for its size, with a hard rind, and intact skin free of bruises, cuts, or dents. Rind should have a dull appearance. Avoid squash that is light in weight or has a shiny, tender rind.
Storage Handling:
Short-term storage recommendation (7 days or less)
- 60-65° F/16-18° C
- 85-95% relative humidity
Shelf-Life:
30 days.
Troubleshooting:
Rapid decay can be caused by chill injury. Storing hard-shell squash in an area with extremely low humidity may cause weight loss and internal deterioration. Store properly.
Shiny, tender rind is an indication of immature squash.
Exposure to ethylene gas can cause rind discoloration; for best quality, store away from ethylene-producing fruits and ripening rooms.
Usage Ideas:
- Toss chunks of pumpkin, chopped chicken breasts, and green beans into coconut curry; simmer until tender.
- Fill ravioli skins with mashed pumpkin; sauté ravioli in brown butter and sage; drizzle with Béchamel sauce.