# Butternut Squash Must-Have Guide for Best Picks

- Link: https://lifeandwork.blog/cooking-how-to-choose-butternut-squash-at-the-market/
- Published: 2026-09-28T06:32:33-05:00
- Author: Bert Swope

Choosing the right butternut squash at the market involves a few key steps:

 1. **Look for a Matte Skin**: The skin of a good butternut squash should be matte,
    not shiny. A shiny skin can indicate that the squash was picked too early.
 2. **Check the Color**: The squash should have a uniform beige color. Avoid squashes
    with green patches, as these are not fully ripe. A deep, rich color often indicates
    ripeness.
 3. **Feel the Weight**: Pick up the squash and feel its weight. It should feel heavy
    for its size, which suggests it’s full of moisture and will be juicy.
 4. **Inspect the Skin**: The skin should be hard and thick, without any cracks, bruises,
    or soft spots. These imperfections can affect both the texture and the flavor of
    the squash.
 5. **Tap It**: Give it a gentle tap. If it sounds hollow, it’s likely ripe. A solid
    sound can mean it’s unripe or dried out.
 6. **Look at the Stem**: A dry, brown stem indicates the squash is ripe. If the stem
    is missing, look at the spot where it was attached. It should be dry and not moist
    or leaking.
 7. **Store Properly**: After purchasing, store your butternut squash in a cool, dry
    place, not in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its texture and flavor.

Each squash is unique, so use these guidelines as a general rule of thumb. With 
practice, you’ll get a feel for choosing the best ones!

How to choose butternut squash at the market

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