Members of the gourd family, squash vary widely in size, shape, and color. Generally, they are divided into two categories—summer squash and winter squash.

The most common varieties of summer squash are crookneck straightneck, pattypan, and zucchini. They are ideal for summer in that they require only a short cooking time. Winter squash, on the other hand, are firmer and have thicker skins. Their dense flesh means they require a longer cooking time than summer squash do, but their flavor is more intense and they are less perishable. The most common varieties of winter squash are acorn, buttercup, butternut, hubbard, spaghetti, and turban.