How to Cook Spaghetti Squash In The Microwave

User Reviews

5

99 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    8 mins

  • Total Time

    13 mins

  • Servings

    4 servings

  • Calories

    74 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    American

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash In The Microwave

This method for cooking spaghetti squash in the microwave starts by piercing the whole squash to soften it partially before cutting. After slicing and removing seeds, the squash halves cook in a microwave-safe dish with water, covered tightly, until tender. The resulting strands resemble spaghetti, ready to be flavored simply with butter, salt, and pepper. This quick technique provides a way to prepare spaghetti squash when stovetop or oven cooking is less convenient.

Description

To cook spaghetti squash in the microwave, first pierce the whole squash multiple times with a fork and microwave on high for a few minutes to soften it enough for slicing. Then cut the squash lengthwise, scoop out seeds and pulp, and place cut side down in a small casserole dish with water at the bottom. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to trap steam, and microwave further until the flesh is soft and can be easily pierced with a fork. After cooking, carefully remove the plastic wrap to avoid steam burns. Use a fork to shred the cooked flesh into noodle-like strands that resemble spaghetti.

This quick cooking method produces tender squash strands without the need for lengthy oven roasting. The mild squash flavor can be enhanced by seasoning with butter, salt, and black pepper, making an easy side dish or base for sauces. The cooking time may vary depending on squash size and microwave wattage.

Adjust cooking times as needed based on the size of the squash and the power of your microwave. Expect about 7 minutes for a medium to small squash under typical conditions. Adding butter and seasonings after cooking provides a simple and satisfying way to enjoy spaghetti squash.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 spaghetti squash
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons butter optional
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pierce spaghetti squash with a fork about 8 times. Place in the microwave 3-4 minutes (do not cook longer than 5 minutes whole).
  2. Remove the squash from the microwave and slice from top to bottom lengthwise. Using a spoon, remove seeds and pulp and discard.
  3. Place 1/4 cup water in the bottom of a small casserole dish. Add squash cut side down. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
  4. Microwave 6-10 minutes or until the squash is easily pierced through the skin with a fork.
  5. Remove from microwave, carefully remove plastic wrap (hot steam will escape so use caution).  
  6. Gently run a fork from top to bottom creating strands of spaghetti squash. Season with butter, salt and pepper.

Notes

  • Smaller spaghetti squashes typically take around 7 minutes to cook in a microwave; adjust time based on size and wattage.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 74 (4%) Carbohydrates 16g (5%) Protein 1g (2%) Fat 1g (2%) Sodium 41mg (2%) Potassium 260mg (6%) Fiber 3g (12%) Sugar 6g (12%) Vitamin A 290IU (6%) Vitamin C 5mg (6%) Calcium 56mg (6%) Iron 0.8mg (4%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 74 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 74 4%
Carbohydrates 16g 5%
Protein 1g 2%
Fat 1g 2%
Sodium 41mg 2%
Potassium 260mg 6%
Fiber 3g 12%
Sugar 6g 12%
Vitamin A 290IU 6%
Vitamin C 5mg 6%
Calcium 56mg 6%
Iron 0.8mg 4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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