Pick it up. No, really. Get that thing in your hands. It should feel surprisingly heavy for its size. Like it’s been drinking a lot of water (and sugar).
If it feels light and hollow, that’s a bad sign. It means the inside is drying out or was never filled out properly. You want a squash that feels like it’s holding a secret—a delicious, orange secret.
Compare two similar-sized squashes. The heavier one is your winner. It’s not rocket science. It’s just gravity giving you a helpful nudge.
The “Thump” Test (Yes, Like a Watermelon)
This one feels a little silly, but it works. Give the squash a gentle thump with your knuckles. Listen carefully.
A ripe one makes a dull, solid, hollow sound. Like knocking on a door made of thick wood. An unripe one? That’ll be a higher, “thinner” noise. Kind of like tapping on an empty wall.
You might get weird looks in the grocery store. Own it. You’re a produce detective on a mission.
5 Signs Your Butternut Squash are Ready for Harvest - The Seasonal
