6 Delicious Recipes Using Local Squash

By: Kirstin Spanu

At the Fredericksburg Food Co-op, we’re fortunate to partner with one of the region’s top farms—Wadel’s Farm Wagon—located in the heart of Rockingham County, Virginia. Wadel’s provides us with some of fall’s most beloved produce, including a variety of flavorful, nutrient-packed squashes like Delicata, Honey Nut, Kabocha, Butternut, Spaghetti Squash, and Pie Pumpkins.

Each of these squashes has its own distinct flavor, texture, and culinary possibilities. And while roasting with salt and pepper is a classic go-to, there’s so much more you can do! Here are six mouth-watering recipes to inspire your fall cooking, featuring these fantastic fruits—yes, squash is technically a fruit!

1. Delicata Squash: Easy & Elegant

This beautiful, cylinder-shaped squash is known for its creamy skin with orange or green stripes. The best part? The skin is edible, so no peeling required!

Try This Recipe:
Delicata Squash & Apples from Love & Lemons pairs the sweetness of squash with the crisp bite of apples, creating a perfect autumn dish.

2. Honey Nut Squash: Sweet & Nutritious

Honey Nut Squash, with its familiar hourglass shape, is often mistaken for Butternut. But this little powerhouse is smaller, sweeter, and packed with three times the beta-carotene, which promotes eye health, cognitive function, and even cancer prevention.

Try This Recipe:
Enjoy a sweet-and-savory take with Honey Nut Squash with Honeyed Walnuts from I Am a Food Blog. The combination of squash and crunchy walnuts is irresistible!

3. Kabocha: A Japanese Delight

Kabocha is a small, sweet squash originating from Japan, and luckily, Wadel’s Farm Wagon grows this delicate variety right here in Virginia.

Try This Recipe:
For a traditional Japanese twist, try Simmered Kabocha from Caroline’s Cooking. This dish uses only 5 ingredients and can be easily adapted if you don’t have dashi broth on hand—just substitute with chicken, vegetable, or fish broth for a similar depth of flavor.

4. Butternut Squash: A Lighter Mash

Looking to switch up your mashed potatoes? Butternut Squash Mash is a creamy, garlicky alternative that’s lower in carbs but just as comforting.

Try This Recipe:
Butternut Squash Mash from Flavor the Moments comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect side dish to balance out a hearty fall meal.

5. Spaghetti Squash: A Pasta-Lover’s Dream

This versatile squash is a healthy, fun substitute for pasta. Its long, spaghetti-like strands offer endless possibilities for easy dinners.

Try This Recipe:
For a simple, comforting meal, try Twice Baked Spaghetti Squash from Home Cooking Memories. With just a few ingredients—spaghetti squash, pasta sauce, and mozzarella—you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.

6. Pie Pumpkins: The Star of Thanksgiving

What’s fall without pumpkin pie? This beloved squash is perfect for creating that classic, crowd-pleasing dessert. Want to elevate your holiday pie? Top it with homemade whipped cream or candied pecans.

Try This Recipe:
Impress your guests with Homemade Pumpkin Pie from Allrecipes. It’s a must-try for any Thanksgiving gathering.

Visit the Fredericksburg Food Co-op and grab some locally grown squash from Wadel’s Farm Wagon to create these delicious fall dishes. Whether you’re cooking a savory side or a sweet dessert, these recipes will help you celebrate the season’s bounty!