How to Cook Spaghetti Squash (The Best Way)
This method for cooking spaghetti squash involves slicing the squash widthwise into thick rings, removing seeds, seasoning with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roasting the pieces until tender. Once cooled, the flesh is peeled and shredded into spaghetti-like strands, providing a textured vegetable base both flavorful and versatile for meals.
Ingredients
- 1 large spaghetti squash
- 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
- salt to taste, sea salt
- black pepper to taste, sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice ends off the squash, then cut widthwise into rings, making sure the rings are about the same size, around 1½ inches thick.
- Use a spoon to scrape out the seeds. (I love using a grapefruit spoon for this.)
- Place squash on rimmed baking sheet and use your hands to coat each ring with a little olive oil, salt and pepper.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping rings once about 15 minutes in.
- Allow to cool for about 15 minutes, then peel the skin away and separate the strands into long spaghetti noodles using a fork.
Notes
- Using a grapefruit spoon to remove seeds can make the task easier and more precise.
- Alternative cooking methods include roasting whole, halving lengthwise, microwaving, or Instant Pot cooking, but these may result in wetter or less flavorful strands.
- For whole roasting, bake at 375°F for about 1 hour 20 minutes, turning once, until tender.
- Microwave cooking involves slicing and placing cut-side down in water-filled dish but may result in watery squash.
- Instant Pot cooking is a viable method but may produce different texture; see specific instructions if using this appliance.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 4 -6 cups
Amount Per Serving
Calories 114
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 2cups | |
| Calories | 114kcal | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Sodium | 56mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.