How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
40 mins
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Total Time
45 mins
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Servings
4 Servings
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Calories
181 kcal
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Course
Side Dish, Main Course
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Cuisine
American
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
Description
This recipe details a straightforward roasting method for spaghetti squash, starting with peeling a band around the squash’s stem end to remove its shiny outer layer. The squash is then halved lengthwise, seeds and fibers are removed, and the flesh is brushed with a seasoning of kosher salt, black pepper, and canola oil. Roasting the squash cut side down on a baking sheet at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 40-45 minutes cooks the squash evenly and softens the interior.
The cooking process softens the flesh enough to be scraped with a fork into long, thin strands resembling spaghetti. This texture makes it a popular low-carb substitute for pasta or a vegetable side. The oil and seasoning add subtle flavor without overpowering the squash’s natural mild taste.
Once cooked, it should be handled carefully with oven mitts due to the heat, and can be seasoned further or incorporated into dishes as needed. Its mild profile allows pairing with sauces, sautés, or as a base for various toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 spaghetti squash washed
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper ground
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Using a peeler, peel a band around the squash (picture a rubber band that goes over the stem) to remove the shiny outermost layer.
- Using a heavy knife, slice the squash in half.
- Scoop out the seeds and extra fibers in the center.
- Season with the salt, pepper and oil and rub it all over the cut side of the squash.
- Place cut side down onto a baking sheet and cook for 40-45 minutes.
- Remove from oven, turn over and using an oven mitt to hold it (it will be SUPER hot), scrape out the squash with a fork into spaghetti like strands.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 181 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 181kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 33g | 11% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 373mg | 16% |
| Potassium | 521mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 7g | 28% |
| Sugar | 13g | 26% |
| Vitamin A | 579IU | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 111mg | 11% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.