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Yes, you can put squash in the fridge, and for many types of squash, the refrigerator is actually a great place to store it.
But here’s the catch—whether you should put squash in the fridge depends on the variety and whether it’s whole or cut.
If you’ve been wondering “can you put squash in the fridge?” the short answer is yes, but there are a few important details to keep in mind.
Summer squash like zucchini and yellow squash love the fridge, while winter squash like butternut and acorn prefer a cool, dry spot on the counter.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly when and how to put squash in the fridge, plus the best ways to keep it fresh for as long as possible.
Let’s get into it.
Can You Put Squash in the Fridge?
Yes, you can put squash in the fridge, but the type of squash you have really matters here.
1. Summer Squash Thrives in the Fridge
Summer squash like zucchini, yellow squash, and pattypan have thin, tender skins that don’t store well at room temperature.
These varieties will soften and go bad within a day or two if left on the counter.
So yes, you can and should put summer squash in the fridge to keep it crisp and fresh.
2. Winter Squash Prefers the Pantry
Winter squash like butternut, acorn, spaghetti, and kabocha have thick, hard rinds that protect them for weeks.
Storing whole winter squash in the fridge can actually cause it to deteriorate faster because of the cold, humid environment.
If the squash is whole, keep it in a cool, dark, dry spot instead.
3. Cut Squash Always Goes in the Fridge
Once you cut into any squash, whether summer or winter, the clock starts ticking.
Cut squash should always go in the fridge because the exposed flesh is vulnerable to bacteria and mold.
Wrap it tightly and use it within a few days for the best texture and flavor.
How to Put Squash in the Fridge the Right Way
If you’re going to put squash in the fridge, do it properly so it stays fresh longer.
1. Keep Summer Squash Whole and Dry
Don’t wash summer squash before you put it in the fridge.
Extra moisture speeds up spoilage, so wipe it dry and store it whole in a produce bag with a few holes for airflow.
The crisper drawer is the ideal spot for summer squash.
2. Store Cut Squash in Airtight Containers
When you put cut squash in the fridge, seal it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic.
This keeps the flesh from drying out and prevents it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge.
Use cut squash within three to five days for the best results.
3. Keep Winter Squash Out Until Cut
Whole winter squash should stay out of the fridge in a cool, dark place like a pantry or basement.
Once you cut it, though, you can put winter squash in the fridge just like summer squash.
Wrap the cut side with plastic wrap and place it in the crisper drawer.
How Long Can Squash Stay in the Fridge?
How long squash lasts in the fridge depends on the type and whether it’s whole or cut.
1. Whole Summer Squash Lasts About a Week
Whole summer squash will stay fresh in the fridge for about five to seven days.
After that, it starts to get soft, wrinkly, and mushy.
So if you put squash in the fridge, plan to use it within a week.
2. Cut Squash Lasts Three to Five Days
Once squash is cut, you have a shorter window.
Most cut squash stays good in the fridge for three to five days when stored properly.
If it looks slimy or smells off, toss it.
3. Cooked Squash Lasts About Four Days
If you’ve cooked your squash, you can also put it in the fridge.
Store cooked squash in an airtight container and eat it within three to four days.
This is a great way to meal prep and have squash ready to go.
So, Can You Put Squash in the Fridge?
Yes, you can put squash in the fridge, and for summer squash and any cut squash, you absolutely should.
Whole winter squash is better off in a cool pantry, but once it’s cut, the fridge is the way to go.
Just remember to keep it dry, wrap it well, and use it within a week for the best taste and texture.
Now you know exactly when and how to put squash in the fridge so nothing goes to waste.