How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
50 mins
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Cooling Time
5 mins
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Total Time
1 hr
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Servings
2 servings
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Calories
212 kcal
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Course
Side Dish, Main Course
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Cuisine
Chinese-American Fussion
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
Description
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash involves cutting a medium squash lengthwise after trimming the ends and removing the seeds. The halves are drizzled with olive oil and lightly salted and peppered, then placed cut side down on a baking sheet. Roasting at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 to 50 minutes softens the squash so that strands can be scraped out with a fork.
The resulting strands have a texture akin to al dente pasta, slightly crisp on the edges when roasted properly, and mild, slightly sweet squash flavor. The piercing of the skin before roasting aids in even heat penetration. Cooling briefly after roasting allows easier handling and prevents overcooking.
This preparation makes spaghetti squash a convenient vegetable side dish or a substitute for traditional pasta in various meals. Its neutral taste pairs well with sauces, toppings, or simply seasoned with butter or cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Wash and cut 1-inch off the top and bottom of 1 medium spaghetti squash. Then cut the squash in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, scrape out the seeds.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down and pierce the skin with a fork several times across the length of the squash.
- Roast in oven, cut side down, for 40 to 50 minutes until the center is soft. Flip over and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Once lightly cooled, gently scrape strands of the squash with a fork, which should look similar to al dente pasta. Serve hot as a side dish or in place of pasta.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 212 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 212kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 33g | 11% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Sodium | 1245mg | 52% |
| Potassium | 522mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 7g | 28% |
| Sugar | 13g | 26% |
| Vitamin A | 579IU | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 112mg | 11% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.