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Pattypan squash

The “flying saucer” squash comes in various colors. A great decoration for any dish!

Origin

Zucchini and squash season has finally begun, bringing us summer vegetables noted for their cleansing properties. There are many varieties, but the pattypan squash is particularly colorful, with a one-of-a-kind flavor. Although it’s shaped like a squash, it’s grown like regular zucchini. The pattypan squash is quite unique, even though it’s from the same family as standard zucchini – cucurbita pepo (of the ovifera variety). The pattypan name refers to different types: white, yellow, orange, green, striped, small or large. It has French origins, so even in Italy it goes by the name ‘zucchina patissone’, or simply ‘patissone’. In any language, the name makes reference to its shape: flat with 10 lobes, resembling a flying saucer.

Cookit

Pattypan squash is very decorative. Whether yellow, white or orange, its colors will enhance any dish. It has a delicate flavor with hints of artichoke. It pairs beautifully with fish or white meat, and its aroma calls to mind fresh seaweed or being at the seaside. Given its round shape, it’s often stuffed with fillings and served as an elegant main dish. Over in France, the pattypan squash is often used in very aromatic or spicy recipes.

Did you know

The pattypan squash’s shape has always sparked chefs’ imaginations. Some see it as a cloud, others as flower petals. It was traditionally associated with priests’ hair, and today it’s compared to a flying saucer! Because of its lovely appearance, it’s usually served whole with stuffing inside. Simply cut off the top, scoop out the insides making sure to scrape around all the lobes, and then you can fill it with whatever you like.

Variety

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