Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that belongs to the Cucurbitaceaeor gourd family, which also includes pumpkin, butternut squash, and zucchini (1Trusted Source).

It has an acorn-like shape with ridged skin that can vary in color from dark green to white. However, the most commonly grown varieties are dark green and often have a patch of bright orange towards the top.

Acorn squash have sweet, yellow-orange flesh that has a slightly nutty flavor. They’re grown in many countries throughout the world but especially popular in North America.

Though they’re botanically classified as a fruit, they’re considered a starchy vegetable and can be used similarly to other high-carb vegetables, such as potatoes, butternut squash, and sweet potatoes.

They’re also favored by backyard farmers, as they’re easy to grow and can be kept for up to a month when properly cured and stored, providing a nutritious produce source during times when other fresh vegetables are scarce.

Acorn squash nutrition

Like other winter squash, acorn squash are highly nutritious, providing a quality source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

One cup (205 grams) of cooked acorn squash offers (2Trusted Source):

• Calories: 115
• Carbs: 30 grams
• Protein: 2 grams
• Fiber: 9 grams
• Provitamin A: 18% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 37% of the DV
• Thiamine (vitamin B1): 23% of the DV
• Pyridoxine (vitamin B6): 20% of the DV
• Folate (vitamin B9): 10% of the DV
• Iron: 11% of the DV
• Magnesium: 22% of the DV
• Potassium: 26% of the DV
• Manganese: 25% of the DV

Though acorn squash is low in calories, it’s packed with various nutrients.

It’s especially high in vitamin C, a water-soluble nutrient that promotes immune system health by supporting immune cell function and protecting against potentially harmful microbes (3Trusted Source).

It’s also an excellent source of B vitamins, which are involved in red blood cell production and metabolism, as well as the electrolytes magnesium and potassium, which are critical for muscle function and blood pressure regulation (4Trusted Source).

Additionally, acorn squash is brimming with fiber, a nutrient that’s essential for healthy digestion and plays an important role in disease prevention (5Trusted Source).