butternut squash and curing

[Mr Yan]

I want to use some of my butternut squash this weekend. Do they need any curing if not being stored? I think I read that the squash curing is only for thickening the skins.

[Chris]

Yes. If you try to use it right after picking the flavor will not be as good and sap will be excreted that will rapidly dry out your hands and anything it touches, causing a painful sensation.