Cucurbita pepo (Straightneck Squash)

Straightneck squash is the classic pale yellow summer squash with a smooth, cylindrical shape that has been a fixture in American vegetable gardens for generations. The straight neck (as opposed to the curved neck of crookneck types) makes it practical to slice evenly for cooking, and the tender flesh is mild, slightly buttery, and versatile in the kitchen. It grills well, roasts to a creamy texture, holds its shape in stews and stir-fries, and can be spiralized into noodles with no special technique required.

Plants grow in a compact bush habit, producing abundantly once they get going. Like all summer squash, the fruits grow fast in warm weather and are best harvested at six to eight inches for the most tender eating quality. Keeping up with the harvest also keeps plants producing vigorously throughout the season. A plant or two is typically enough to keep a household well supplied through the summer.

Straightneck squash is a straightforward, high-producing summer vegetable that performs reliably in Pacific Northwest gardens once the soil warms up.