Baby yellow patty pan squash is of the species, Cucurbita pepo, along with other squashes, gourds and pumpkins. There are essentially three types of squash: constricted neck, zucchini and winter. Baby patty pan squash is a zucchini type of squash and a scallopini squash named for its shape and the petit size that it is harvested at.

Baby yellow patty pan squash is saucer shaped, almost resembling a toy top. Its coloring, vibrant yellow with green tipped stem and blossom ends. Its flesh is crisp, creamy colored and succulent with a moist seed cavity. Its flavors are bright, peppery and somewhat grassy with a sweet finish. Younger summer squash is chosen over mature squash as their seeds are barely developed and the flesh has a higher moisture content while mature squash’s skin becomes drier and thicker and its flavor can decline, even become bitter. In addition to the fruit of the plant, the leaves and the flower (blossoms) are also edible.

Serving Ideas

The unique size of this baby summer squash makes it a colorful addition to a variety of savory dishes. To store, refrigerate unwashed squash in a plastic bag. For optimum flavor and texture, use within three to four days as this squash is delicately flavored and perishable.

Geography/History

Squashes are of New World origin, their importance as a crop evolving during the pre-Colombia era in the Americas. Summer zucchini varieties, however saw much of their development in Italy, generations after their introduction from the New World, which can attribute to zucchini’s placement within Italy’s culinary history. Dubbed garden overachievers, summer squash varieties are considered easy to grow, thriving in full sun, warm weather and rich moist organic soil. Summer squash varieties (free of pests, specifically vine borers) will bear at least two to three abundant harvests of fruit per season. Squashes vary from vine to bush type varieties: trailing vines tend to be more invasive and overwhelming. Patty pan squashes are open bush types which allow for easier harvests.

Seasons/Availability

Baby yellow patty pan squash is available year round.