How to Harvest Squash Tendrils for a Delicious Summer Dish

Summer is just around the corner, and that means it's time to start thinking about all the delicious produce that will be available soon. One often overlooked part of the squash plant is the tendrils. These delicate, curly shoots are not only beautiful but also quite tasty. In this article, we'll show you how to harvest squash tendrils and turn them into a delicious summer dish.

What Are Squash Tendrils?

Before we dive into the process of harvesting squash tendrils, let's take a closer look at what they are. Tendrils are the thin, curly appendages that grow from the stems of squash plants. They're usually green, although some varieties may have a reddish tint. The tendrils serve as a support system for the plant, allowing it to climb and spread out as it grows.

When to Harvest Squash Tendrils

Now that we know what squash tendrils are, let's talk about when to harvest them. You want to pick the tendrils when they're young and tender, ideally no longer than 4 inches in length. Once they get too long, they can become tough and stringy. It's also best to harvest them in the morning when the plants are hydrated and cool.

How to Harvest Squash Tendrils

Harvesting squash tendrils is a simple process. First, locate the tendrils on your squash plant. They'll be growing out from the main stem or from the junction of the stem and a leaf. Gently grasp the tendril at the base with one hand and use the other hand to snap it off where it meets the stem. Be sure to only pick the tendrils and not the leaves or flowers.

Young squash tendrils

If you're having trouble finding tendrils on your squash plant, don't worry. Some varieties of squash produce more tendrils than others. You may need to search around a bit to find them.

Preparing Squash Tendrils

Once you've harvested your squash tendrils, it's time to prepare them for cooking. Start by washing them thoroughly in cold water. Then, trim off any tough stems or leaves at the base of the tendrils. You can then use the tendrils whole or chop them into smaller pieces.

Washing squash tendrils

One popular way to cook squash tendrils is to sauté them with garlic and olive oil. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Then, add the prepared squash tendrils and sauté for another 3-5 minutes, until they're tender and lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Sautéed squash tendrils

You can also add squash tendrils to soups, stews, and salads for a nutritious and flavorful twist. Experiment with different recipes to find the preparation method that you like best.

Now that you know how to harvest squash tendrils, you can add them to your repertoire of summer dishes. These delicate shoots are not only beautiful but also quite tasty. Remember to harvest them when they're young and tender, and be sure to wash them thoroughly before preparing them. With a little bit of effort, you can turn these humble tendrils into a delicious and nutritious meal.

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