Shapes and Colors of Canadian Pumpkin and Squash

This is the season of pumpkins and squash in Canada. If you visit any large supermarket, you will find tons of pumpkins and squash in different colors and shapes. A lot of people are buying these plants since Halloween is approaching.

Pumpkin and squash are popular vegetables that are often used in traditional dishes during the fall season in Canada. These plants belong to the cucurbit family, which includes other well-known vegetables such as cucumbers, melons, and gourds. Pumpkin and squash come in a variety of shapes and colors, making them a visually striking and versatile ingredient in the kitchen.

One of the most well-known pumpkin varieties in Canada is the iconic Jack-o’-lantern pumpkin. These round, orange pumpkins are often used as decorations during Halloween and are also popular for carving. However, pumpkins come in many other colors as well, including white, green, and even blue.

In addition to the traditional pumpkin shapes, there are also many varieties of squash that come in different shapes and sizes. Some common squash varieties include acorn squash, which has a distinctive teardrop shape and dark green skin, and butternut squash, which is longer and more cylindrical in shape with a creamy orange skin.

Other popular squash varieties include the spaghetti squash, which has a pale yellow skin and a stringy flesh that resembles spaghetti noodles when cooked, and the delicata squash, which has a distinctive green and yellow striped skin.

In addition to their diverse shapes and colors, pumpkin and squash are also a nutritious and delicious addition to many dishes. They are high in fiber and contain important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Whether you are carving a Jack-o’-lantern for Halloween or adding a colorful and flavorful touch to your fall dishes, pumpkin and squash offer a wide range of shapes and colors to choose from. So next time you are at the farmers market or grocery store, consider trying out a new variety of pumpkin or squash and adding some visual interest to your meals.