Opo Squash Delivery or Pickup

Opo squash is technically not a squash at all! A member of the Cucurbitaceae family, this popular food is botanically considered a variety of gourd. Culinarily, though, Opo squash is used as a summer squash. The calabash-type squash is closely related to and sometimes called interchangeably with names for similar squashes depending on where it is grown. You may therefore know Opo squash by various other names, including:

Boasting a long, cylindrical shape, Opo squash is usually harvested when it reaches between 10 and 15 inches in length. However, you can find Opo squash that is anywhere between 6 and 36 inches long. The squash is much narrower than it is long, with most Opo squashes between 3 and 12 inches wide. You can find stout, plump Opo squashes as well as squashes that have curved inward.

As with other calabash squashes, Opo squash requires a long and warm growing season, so it doesn't usually grow well in nontropical climates. The squash originates in the Mediterranean and North African region, but now commonly grows in Southeast Asia too.

Opo squash has smooth skin that can range in color from yellow or light green to chartreuse shades. The skin holds firm, white flesh and small seeds. You can eat young seeds when they are still tender, but the seeds become hard as Opo squash matures. You should remove hard, mature Opo squash seeds before you consume the squash.

You can expect a subtle and mild flavor when consuming Opo squash. Opo squash tastes similar to zucchini, and like a mix of cucumber and summer squash. The taste grows more bitter as the squash ages. When you bite it, expect a firm but tender texture. The hard skin remains tough after you cook it.

Opo squash is very low in calories and rich in fiber. You will also get additional nutrients such as B vitamins, calcium, folate, iron, vitamin C, and zinc when you consume Opo squash.

Opo squash is typically available throughout the year. You'll want to choose firm ones that do not have blemishes. Go for squash that still has the stem attached. Smaller, younger Opo squashes tend to be sweeter and tastier.

Keep Opo squash dry when you store it. You can place Opo squash in a plastic bag to store in the refrigerator. Refrigerated Opo squash will usually keep for around one week. Opo squash will also do well for two to three weeks if you keep it in dry, cool storage.

Opo squash is generally used for cooked applications. You do not eat the skin of Opo squash, so you may want to peel it before you cook it. You should discard large seeds.

Wash the Opo squash before slicing it in half and then scraping the seeds out with a spoon. You can then use Opo squash a lot like you would use a zucchini for fried or stir-fried dishes as well as soups and stews, especially if you have young Opo squash.