How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
4 cups
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Calories
168 kcal
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave
Description
Begin by carefully cutting the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and removing the seeds and fibrous strands. Each half is placed cut-side down in a glass dish suitable for microwave cooking. Adding about an inch of water in the dish steams the squash during microwaving, which usually takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on the squash size and microwave power.
When done, the flesh will be soft enough to shred into long, spaghetti-like strands with a fork. Seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper enhances its mild, slightly nutty flavor. The quick microwave method avoids heating the oven and provides a tender but still slightly firm texture.
This preparation is a simple base suitable for serving as a side dish or as a substitute for pasta. Care must be taken when cutting the raw squash due to its hard shell. Adjust cooking time by testing the squash after 10 minutes and continuing as needed based on noodle-like texture readiness.
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash 4 pounds
- 1 cup water may more be needed
- kosher salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut your squash in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the seeds and stringy insides of the squash.
- Lay the spaghetti squash, cut side down, into a 9x13 microwave safe glass pan.
- Pour the water into the dish. You want about an inch of water in the dish so add more if needed.
- Add squash to the microwave and cook for anywhere from 10-15 minutes depending on the size of the squash and the wattage of the microwave.
- The squash is ready when it can be easily pierced with a fork and the inside flesh of the squash shreds like noodles.
- Carefully remove from the pan, shred the inside of the squash with a fork and season with desired amount of kosher salt and black pepper.
Notes
- Be extremely cautious when cutting the squash in half to avoid injury.
- Cooking times vary; start checking for doneness at 10 minutes and adjust as needed.
- If your microwave cannot fit a 9x13 pan, cook the halves separately in smaller pans or save one half for another time.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4cups
Amount Per Serving
Calories 168 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 4cups | |
| Calories | 168kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Sodium | 112mg | 5% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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