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How to Cut Spaghetti Squash
Learn how to cut spaghetti squash with or without a microwave! This step-by-step guide simplifies the process, and provides useful tips that make it safe, easy, and quick!
Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
10 mins
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 169 kcal
Course:
Main Course
Cuisine:
American
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 teaspoon olive oil optional
- ½ teaspoon salt optional
- ½ teaspoon black pepper optional
Instructions
With Microwave
- Wash the spaghetti squash thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt from the skin.
- Using a fork or a paring knife, make small holes in the spaghetti squash skin. Place it in the microwave. Cook it on high for 4 minutes.
- Carefully remove the squash from the microwave (using oven mitts or a kitchen towel) and let it rest for a minute or two.
- Once you're able to handle the squash, use a sharp chef’s knife, slice it lengthwise from top to bottom, right down the middle.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any loose fibers.
Cup of Yum
Without Microwave
- First, stand the squash upright on one of the flat ends. This makes cutting it in half lengthwise much easier and safer.
- Then slowly slice in half with your chef's knife using a rocking motion. Apply a steady pressure, by holding down the squash firmly, and then cut back and forth if needed.
- Once you've cut and cleaned the spaghetti squash, you can proceed with your chosen cooking method.
Notes
- Then, cook the spaghetti squash in an oven, microwave, Instant Pot, air fryer or slow cooker. Or try one of the amazing recipes mentioned in the post.
- Stabilize the squash so it doesn't move Place a damp kitchen towel or a non-slip mat under the squash to prevent it from slipping while you're cutting. Use a cutting board and keep your fingers well away from the blade.
- Use a sharp knife: You hear this all the time, but a sharp knife is absolutely critical for cutting a hard squash. Begin by cutting off a small portion from one end to create a stable base.
- Cut lengthwise: With a firm grip on the squash, cut it in half lengthwise. Take your time and use a rocking motion with the knife. If you use a microwave though, cutting it along the shorter edge actually produces longer noodles!
- Use something heavy: If the squash is particularly tough, you can use a mallet or the back of a heavy knife to gently tap the blade of your knife so it goes through the squash. But be very careful and keep your fingers safe.
Nutrition Information
Calories
169kcal
(8%)
Carbohydrates
34g
(11%)
Protein
3g
(6%)
Fat
5g
(8%)
Saturated Fat
1g
(5%)
Polyunsaturated Fat
1g
Monounsaturated Fat
2g
Sodium
664mg
(28%)
Potassium
528mg
(15%)
Fiber
7g
(28%)
Sugar
13g
(26%)
Vitamin A
582IU
(12%)
Vitamin C
10mg
(11%)
Calcium
114mg
(11%)
Iron
2mg
(11%)
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 2servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 169
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 169kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 34g | 11% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Sodium | 664mg | 28% |
| Potassium | 528mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 7g | 28% |
| Sugar | 13g | 26% |
| Vitamin A | 582IU | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 114mg | 11% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.