Spaghetti squash is a versatile veggie that can jazz up your meals. It’s a great swap for pasta if you want to cut carbs or try something new.
When cooked, its flesh turns into strands that look like spaghetti.
You can use spaghetti squash in many tasty dishes. From simple roasted squash to fancy casseroles, there’s a recipe for every taste.
Let’s check out some yummy ways to cook with this unique squash.
1. Roasted Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash
Roasted garlic parmesan spaghetti squash is a tasty low-carb dish. You’ll love its simple ingredients and rich flavors.
Start by roasting a spaghetti squash in the oven. Once cooked, scrape out the squash strands with a fork.
In a pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Toss the spaghetti squash strands in this garlicky butter mixture.
Sprinkle fresh grated parmesan cheese over the squash. Mix well to coat evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, you can add some spinach or mozzarella cheese. This dish makes a great side or main course for a light meal.
2. Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai
Want to try a tasty twist on a classic Thai dish? Spaghetti squash pad Thai is a great option. You’ll replace rice noodles with strands of cooked spaghetti squash.
To make this dish, start by cooking the spaghetti squash in the oven. Once it’s done, use a fork to create spaghetti-like strands.
Mix the squash with veggies like cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers. Add some protein, such as chicken or tofu. Don’t forget the peanuts and cilantro for extra flavor and crunch.
The sauce is key to getting that authentic pad Thai taste. Combine ingredients like fish sauce, lime juice, and a touch of sugar.
Toss everything together and enjoy your healthier version of pad Thai.
3. Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole
You’ll love this cheesy spaghetti squash casserole. It’s a tasty, low-carb dish that’s easy to make.
Start by cooking the spaghetti squash. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and bake it cut-side down.
While it’s cooking, sauté some onions, garlic, and mushrooms in a pan. You can add other veggies like spinach or bell peppers if you like.
Once the squash is done, scrape out the strands. Mix them with the sautéed veggies, some cheese, and seasonings.
Put everything in a casserole dish, top with more cheese, and bake until bubbly. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food without all the carbs.
4. Pesto Chicken Spaghetti Squash
Pesto chicken spaghetti squash is a tasty, low-carb meal that’s easy to make.
You start by roasting a spaghetti squash in the oven for 30-45 minutes. While it cooks, prepare your chicken and pesto sauce.
Once the squash is done, let it cool for 15 minutes. Then scrape out the insides to create spaghetti-like strands.
Mix in your cooked chicken, pesto, and some green beans for extra color and crunch.
Top it off with parmesan cheese for added flavor.
This dish is high in fiber and protein, but lower in calories than regular pasta. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a healthier version of chicken pesto pasta.
5. Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
Spaghetti squash carbonara is a tasty, low-carb twist on the classic pasta dish. To make it, you’ll need a medium spaghetti squash, pancetta, eggs, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
Start by cooking the squash. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and bake it face-down until tender. Use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands.
While the squash cooks, prepare the carbonara sauce. Mix egg yolks with grated cheese and black pepper. Cook the pancetta until crispy.
Toss the hot squash strands with the egg mixture and pancetta. The heat will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce.
Serve immediately for a delicious, veggie-packed meal.
6. Spaghetti Squash with Shrimp Scampi
Spaghetti squash with shrimp scampi is a tasty, low-carb dish. It swaps pasta for squash noodles, cutting calories while keeping flavor.
To make it, bake the squash first. While it cooks, prepare the shrimp scampi sauce. Mix garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine in a pan.
Add shrimp to the sauce and cook for about 2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them or they’ll get rubbery.
Scrape out the squash strands and top with the shrimp and sauce. For extra flavor, you can season the squash with butter, salt, pepper, and garlic.
7. Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash
Buffalo chicken spaghetti squash combines two favorite dishes into one tasty meal. To make it, start by cutting a spaghetti squash in half and roasting it in the oven at 350°F.
While the squash cooks, prepare the buffalo chicken mixture. Mix shredded chicken with melted cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing for a creamy, spicy topping.
Once the squash is tender, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands. Top the squash “noodles” with the buffalo chicken mixture.
For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving.
This low-carb dish is packed with protein and vegetables, making it a satisfying and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo chicken pasta.
8. Spaghetti Squash Alfredo
Spaghetti squash alfredo is a tasty, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. To make it, cut a spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Cook the squash halves in boiling water for about 20 minutes until tender.
Once cooked, use a fork to scrape out the squash strands.
For the alfredo sauce, mix melted butter, cottage cheese, and grated Parmesan. Combine the sauce with the squash strands.
You can add extra flavor by including mushrooms or other vegetables.
For a crispy topping, sprinkle more Parmesan on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and browned.
9. Lasagna-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
This tasty dish combines the best of spaghetti squash and lasagna. Cut a spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Roast it in the oven until tender.
While it cooks, prepare a lasagna-style filling with ground meat, spinach, and cheese. Once the squash is done, fluff the strands with a fork.
Fill the squash halves with your lasagna mixture. Top with more cheese and pop it back in the oven until bubbly.
You’ll have a low-carb version of lasagna that’s both healthy and satisfying.
10. Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce
Spaghetti squash with marinara sauce is a tasty, low-carb alternative to pasta. To make it, cut a spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds.
Brush the inside with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast the squash face-down in a 375°F oven for 30-40 minutes until tender.
Once cool, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands.
Top with warm marinara sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
This simple dish is both healthy and satisfying. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or protein to the sauce.
11. Cajun Spaghetti Squash
Cajun spaghetti squash brings a spicy kick to your dinner table. You can make it as a casserole or in a skillet for a quick meal.
To prepare, roast the spaghetti squash first. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and bake until tender. While it cooks, season chicken with Cajun spices and cook it in a pan.
Mix the cooked squash strands with the chicken and add a creamy sauce. You can use dairy-free options to keep it lighter. Bake everything together until hot and bubbly.
This dish gives you the flavors of Cajun pasta with fewer carbs. It’s a tasty way to enjoy comfort food while eating more vegetables.
12. Spaghetti Squash Primavera
Spaghetti squash primavera is a tasty veggie-packed dish. It’s a great way to enjoy a pasta-like meal without the carbs.
To make it, start by baking your spaghetti squash. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and bake until tender.
While it cooks, sauté a mix of veggies. Try onions, garlic, mushrooms, broccoli, and asparagus. Cook them until they’re just right – not too soft, not too crunchy.
Once your squash is done, scrape out the “noodles” with a fork. Mix them with your sautéed veggies and add some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
This dish works well as a main course or a side. It’s filling, healthy, and full of color.
13. Spinach and Artichoke Spaghetti Squash
Spinach and artichoke spaghetti squash combines the flavors of a beloved appetizer with a low-carb veggie base. It’s a tasty twist on the classic dip that makes for a satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by roasting spaghetti squash until tender. While it cooks, prepare a creamy mixture of spinach, artichoke hearts, and cheese.
Once the squash is done, scrape out the strands and mix them with the spinach-artichoke blend. You can serve it directly in the squash shells for a fun presentation.
This recipe is versatile – add chicken for extra protein or keep it vegetarian. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food flavors while getting more vegetables in your diet.
14. Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein
Spaghetti squash chow mein is a tasty, low-carb version of the classic Chinese dish. You replace regular noodles with strands of cooked spaghetti squash.
To make it, cook the spaghetti squash and scrape out the “noodles”. Then stir-fry veggies like cabbage, carrots, and celery in a pan. Add the squash strands and a sauce made with soy sauce and brown sugar.
This dish comes together quickly if you pre-cook the squash.
It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of chow mein while eating more vegetables. You can also add chicken or keep it vegetarian.
15. Baked Spaghetti Squash Tacos
Baked spaghetti squash tacos offer a tasty low-carb twist on traditional tacos. Start by baking a spaghetti squash until tender, about 30-40 minutes at 375°F.
Once cooked, use a fork to scrape out the squash strands. Mix these with your favorite taco seasonings and toppings like ground meat, beans, or veggies.
Spoon the mixture into crispy taco shells or use the squash as a base for a taco bowl. Top with cheese, salsa, sour cream, or avocado.
This dish combines the flavors of tacos with the light texture of spaghetti squash for a unique and satisfying meal.
It’s a great way to add more veggies to your diet while enjoying a Mexican-inspired dish.
16. Spaghetti Squash Enchilada Boats
Spaghetti squash enchilada boats offer a tasty, low-carb twist on traditional enchiladas. To make them, cut a spaghetti squash in half and roast it in the oven until tender.
Scoop out the stringy flesh and mix it with enchilada sauce, shredded chicken, and spices. Stuff this mixture back into the squash halves.
Top with cheese and bake until melted and bubbly. You can customize these boats with your favorite toppings like diced onions, cilantro, or sour cream.
This dish is perfect for those watching their carb intake or looking to add more veggies to their meals.
It’s a creative way to enjoy Mexican flavors while getting a full serving of vegetables.
17. Lemon Ricotta Spaghetti Squash
This dish combines tangy lemon, creamy ricotta, and tender spaghetti squash.
To prepare, cut the squash in half and remove the seeds. Brush the insides with olive oil and bake at 400°F until soft.
While it cooks, mix ricotta cheese with lemon zest, juice, and herbs.
Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the strands. Toss the squash with the ricotta mixture and add salt and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, try adding roasted asparagus or garlic. This light and refreshing meal is perfect for warm evenings or as a side dish.
18. Spaghetti Squash with Mediterranean Vegetables
This dish combines tender spaghetti squash with flavorful Mediterranean ingredients.
Start by roasting the squash until it’s soft enough to scrape into strands. While the squash cooks, prepare a mix of colorful vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini.
Sauté them with garlic, olive oil, and herbs like basil and oregano. Add some tangy olives and capers for extra Mediterranean flair.
Mix the cooked veggies with the spaghetti squash strands. Top with crumbled feta cheese for a salty, creamy finish.
This meal is light yet satisfying. It’s perfect for warm evenings or when you want a break from pasta. The Mediterranean flavors complement the mild squash beautifully.
19. Spaghetti Squash with Avocado Sauce
You can make a tasty and healthy meal by pairing spaghetti squash with creamy avocado sauce.
Start by roasting your spaghetti squash in the oven until tender. While it cooks, blend ripe avocados with garlic, lemon juice, and a splash of water to make a smooth sauce.
You can add herbs like basil or cilantro for extra flavor. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the strands.
Toss the squash “noodles” with your avocado sauce and season with salt and pepper.
This dish gives you a low-carb alternative to pasta that’s full of nutrients. The creamy avocado pairs well with the mild flavor of spaghetti squash.
20. BBQ Pulled Pork Spaghetti Squash
BBQ pulled pork spaghetti squash combines two favorite dishes into one tasty meal.
Start by roasting a whole spaghetti squash in the oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes. While it cooks, mix diced pork with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Once the squash is cool enough to handle, cut it in half and scrape out the flesh with a fork. Mix the squash strands with the BBQ pork mixture.
You can add some caramelized onions for extra flavor. Spoon the mixture back into the empty squash shells.
Top with shredded cheese if you like. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until everything is hot and the cheese melts. This dish gives you a healthier twist on pulled pork sandwiches.
21. Spaghetti Squash Bolognese
Spaghetti squash bolognese is a tasty, low-carb twist on the classic Italian dish.
You’ll love how the squash strands mimic pasta while cutting down on calories. To make it, start by roasting a halved spaghetti squash in the oven at 400°F.
While it cooks, prepare a rich meat sauce with ground beef or a mix of beef and pork. Once the squash is tender, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands.
Top these “noodles” with your homemade bolognese sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This hearty meal is perfect for those following low-carb or gluten-free diets. It’s also a great way to sneak more veggies into your dinner.
22. Tandoori Spaghetti Squash
Tandoori spaghetti squash combines Indian flavors with a low-carb veggie base.
To make this dish, you’ll need spaghetti squash and tandoori seasoning. Start by roasting your spaghetti squash until tender.
While it cooks, mix yogurt with tandoori spices, salt, and lime juice to create a flavorful marinade.
Once the squash is done, scrape out the strands. Toss them with the tandoori yogurt mixture.
For extra protein, add some cooked chicken or tofu. This recipe offers a tasty twist on traditional pasta dishes. It’s perfect for those looking to cut carbs without sacrificing flavor.
23. Creamy Mushroom Spaghetti Squash
This dish combines the light texture of spaghetti squash with a rich mushroom sauce.
Start by cooking the spaghetti squash in the microwave or oven until tender. While it cooks, prepare the creamy mushroom sauce.
Sauté onions and garlic in butter, then add sliced mushrooms. Mix in cream of mushroom soup and sour cream for a smooth, flavorful sauce.
Once the squash is ready, scrape out the strands with a fork. Top the squash with the mushroom sauce and mix well.
For extra protein, you can add cooked chicken or bacon. This meal is low-carb and can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare on busy weeknights.
24. Curried Spaghetti Squash
Curried spaghetti squash is a tasty, low-carb dish that brings Thai flavors to your plate. To make it, start by cutting a spaghetti squash in half and removing the seeds.
Roast the squash halves in the oven until tender. While it cooks, prepare a curry sauce with coconut milk, curry powder, and spices like turmeric and cinnamon.
Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the strands. Mix these “noodles” with your curry sauce, adding vegetables like peas, corn, and tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
This dish is perfect for those looking to cut down on carbs while still enjoying rich, spicy flavors. It’s easy to customize with your favorite curry spices and veggies.
25. Spaghetti Squash Pizza Nests
Spaghetti squash pizza nests are a fun and tasty low-carb twist on pizza. To make them, you’ll need cooked spaghetti squash, pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Mix the cooked squash with pizza sauce and seasonings. Spoon the mixture into greased muffin tins, pressing it against the sides to form nest shapes.
Bake the nests for about 15 minutes to set their shape. Then add cheese and toppings like mini pepperoni. Pop them back in the oven until the cheese melts.
These bite-sized pizza treats are perfect for parties or as a creative way to use leftover spaghetti squash. Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty, handheld snacks.
26. Tuscan-Style Spaghetti Squash
Tuscan-style spaghetti squash brings Italian flavors to this low-carb veggie dish. You’ll love the creamy Parmesan sauce coating the squash strands.
Start by baking the spaghetti squash until tender. While it cooks, prepare a sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
Scrape out the squash strands and mix them with the sauce. Top the mixture with mozzarella cheese and broil until golden.
The result is a comforting, flavorful meal that satisfies pasta cravings without the carbs.
27. Italian Sausage Spaghetti Squash
This tasty dish combines the low-calorie goodness of spaghetti squash with savory Italian sausage.
Start by roasting a medium spaghetti squash until tender. While it cooks, brown Italian sausage in a skillet.
Add diced onions, celery, and carrots to the pan. Cook until the veggies start to soften.
Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, and minced garlic. Let the sauce simmer to blend the flavors.
Use a fork to scrape the cooked squash into spaghetti-like strands. Mix the squash with the sausage and veggie sauce.
You can serve it as is or bake it in a casserole dish for a comforting meal. This recipe offers a lighter take on traditional pasta dishes.
28. Mexican Spaghetti Squash Bowls
Mexican Spaghetti Squash Bowls offer a tasty, low-carb twist on traditional burrito bowls.
You start by roasting spaghetti squash halves until tender, then scrape out the strands. Mix the squash with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and black beans.
Add some Mexican-style cheese, cilantro, and cumin for flavor. You can also include cooked ground beef with taco seasoning if you want a meat option.
Spoon the mixture back into the squash halves or a casserole dish. Top with more cheese and bake until hot and bubbly.
Serve with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream for a complete meal.
29. Spaghetti Squash with Bacon and Egg
This dish combines the low-carb goodness of spaghetti squash with savory bacon and creamy eggs.
Start by roasting your spaghetti squash until tender. While it cooks, fry up some crispy bacon pieces.
Once the squash is done, scrape out the strands with a fork. Toss the spaghetti squash strands with the bacon and a bit of olive oil.
Create a well in the center and crack an egg into it. Bake until the egg whites are set but the yolk is still runny.
The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast or dinner.
30. Maple Sriracha Spaghetti Squash
This dish combines sweet maple syrup with spicy sriracha sauce for a flavorful twist on spaghetti squash.
Cut a spaghetti squash in half and roast it in the oven until tender. Scrape out the squash strands with a fork.
In a bowl, mix maple syrup and sriracha sauce to taste. Start with a 2:1 ratio of maple to sriracha and adjust as needed.
Toss the spaghetti squash strands with the maple sriracha mixture. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
For extra texture, you can top it with chopped nuts or sesame seeds.
This recipe offers a nice balance of sweet and spicy flavors. It works well as a side dish or light main course. You can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of sriracha.
31. Spaghetti Squash with Lemon and Almonds
This dish combines the light, noodle-like texture of spaghetti squash with bright lemon flavor and crunchy almonds.
You’ll start by roasting the squash until tender. Once cooked, scrape out the strands and toss them with melted butter, lemon juice, and zest.
The citrus adds a fresh, tangy taste that pairs well with the mild squash. Top your lemony squash with toasted sliced almonds for a satisfying crunch.
You can also sprinkle on some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
This simple recipe makes a tasty low-carb side dish or light main course. It’s quick to prepare and lets the natural flavors of the squash shine through.
32. Greek Spaghetti Squash Salad
This refreshing dish combines cooked spaghetti squash with classic Greek flavors. You’ll love the mix of textures and tastes.
Start by cooking the spaghetti squash in the oven or microwave. Once cooled, scoop out the strands.
In a large bowl, toss the squash with diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and chickpeas.
Add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives for a salty kick. Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and dried herbs like oregano and thyme.
Season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste.
Serve this Greek-inspired salad warm or chilled. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at your next barbecue.
33. Spaghetti Squash with Peanut Sauce
You can make a tasty Asian-inspired dish with spaghetti squash and peanut sauce.
Start by cooking the squash in the microwave for about 15 minutes until tender. Once cooked, scrape the squash into strands with a fork.
In a skillet, mix minced garlic, chopped parsley, and peanut sauce. Add the spaghetti squash strands and crushed peanuts to the skillet.
Cook for 2 minutes until heated through. For extra flavor and crunch, top with sliced red peppers and dry roasted peanuts.
This gluten-free meal is both healthy and satisfying.
34. Stuffed Jalapeño Spaghetti Squash
This tasty dish combines the flavors of jalapeño poppers with spaghetti squash.
To make it, cut a spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds. Brush it with olive oil and bake until tender. While it cooks, mix cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, Monterey Jack, and chopped jalapeños.
Scoop out the cooked squash strands and stir them into the cheese mixture. Fill the squash shells with the cheesy filling.
Top with extra cheese and bake until melted and bubbly. You’ll love this spicy, creamy low-carb meal that’s perfect for game day or any night of the week.
35. Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs
This dish combines healthy spaghetti squash with flavorful turkey meatballs.
Start by roasting the spaghetti squash until tender, about 30-40 minutes. While the squash cooks, prepare the turkey meatballs.
Mix ground turkey with egg, almond meal or breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Form into small meatballs and bake for about 20 minutes.
Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil. Add mushrooms if desired. Cook until soft and lightly browned.
Once the squash is done, scrape out the strands with a fork. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the squash “noodles”. Top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of cheese if you like.
36. Herbed Spaghetti Squash with Feta
This tasty dish combines the mild flavor of spaghetti squash with savory herbs and tangy feta cheese.
Start by cutting a spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and baking it at 375°F until tender. Once cooked, use a fork to scrape out the squash strands into a bowl.
Mix in your favorite herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley for added flavor. Top the herbed squash with crumbled feta cheese.
The salty feta pairs well with the slightly sweet taste of the squash. For extra nutrition, you can add some spinach or white beans to the mix.
This versatile recipe works great as a side dish or light main course. It’s a healthy, low-carb alternative to pasta that’s still satisfying and delicious.
37. Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Goat Cheese
This tasty dish combines spaghetti squash with spinach and goat cheese for a flavorful, low-carb meal.
Start by baking the spaghetti squash until tender. While it cooks, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
Add tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts. Scrape out the cooked squash strands and mix them with the vegetable mixture.
Top with crumbled goat cheese for a creamy finish.
This recipe is quick to make and full of nutrients. The goat cheese adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the mild squash and earthy spinach.
38. Spaghetti Squash with Thai Green Curry
You can make a tasty low-carb dish by combining spaghetti squash with Thai green curry.
Start by roasting the squash in the oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes. While it cooks, prepare your green curry sauce using coconut milk, curry paste, and spices.
Add veggies like bok choy or spinach to boost nutrition. Once the squash is done, scrape out the strands and mix them with your curry sauce.
Top with fresh basil and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
This meal gives you the Thai flavors you love without the extra carbs from regular noodles. It’s a great way to enjoy curry while keeping things light and healthy.
39. Spaghetti Squash with Pine Nut Gremolata
This dish combines tender spaghetti squash with a zesty pine nut gremolata.
Start by roasting your spaghetti squash until the flesh is easily pulled into strands with a fork. While the squash cooks, make the gremolata.
Toast pine nuts in a dry pan until golden. Chop fresh parsley and garlic, then mix with lemon zest and the toasted pine nuts.
Scrape the cooked squash into a bowl and top with the gremolata. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
The bright flavors of the gremolata complement the mild squash perfectly.
This recipe offers a light yet satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. You can serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a vegetarian main course.
40. Chorizo Spaghetti Squash
This tasty dish combines spicy chorizo with tender spaghetti squash.
Cut a spaghetti squash in half and microwave it for about 15 minutes until soft. While it cooks, sauté chorizo in a skillet with onions, peppers, and garlic.
Add some chili powder and cumin for extra flavor. Scrape out the squash strands and mix them with the chorizo mixture.
Top with black beans, corn, and green chilies for added texture and taste.
You can customize this recipe by using spicy or mild chorizo based on your preference. It’s a filling meal that’s lower in carbs than traditional pasta dishes.
41. Spaghetti Squash with Cilantro Lime Sauce
This dish combines the mild flavor of spaghetti squash with a zesty cilantro lime sauce.
To make it, bake a spaghetti squash until tender and shred the flesh into noodle-like strands. For the sauce, blend fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
You can add a touch of honey for sweetness if you like. Pour the sauce over the warm squash strands and toss to coat evenly.
This recipe is great for a light meal or side dish. You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. It’s a tasty way to enjoy spaghetti squash with bright, fresh flavors.
Nutritional Benefits of Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash is a nutrient-dense vegetable that offers many health perks. It’s low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This squash can be a great addition to your diet.
Vitamins and Minerals
Spaghetti squash is packed with important nutrients. It’s a good source of vitamin C, which helps your immune system.
You’ll also get vitamin B6, which aids in brain function and making red blood cells. This squash gives you beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A.
Vitamin A is key for eye health and your immune system. Spaghetti squash also has potassium, which helps control blood pressure.
Fiber is another big plus. One cup of cooked spaghetti squash has about 2 grams of fiber. Fiber aids digestion and helps you feel full.
Comparing to Other Squashes
Spaghetti squash stands out from other squashes in a few ways. It’s lower in calories and carbs than many other types. One cup has only about 42 calories and 10 grams of carbs.
This makes it a good choice if you’re watching your weight or blood sugar. Other squashes like butternut or acorn have more calories and carbs per serving.
Spaghetti squash is unique in its texture. When cooked, it forms strands like pasta. This makes it a popular low-carb swap for noodles in many dishes.
Cooking Techniques
Spaghetti squash can be cooked in different ways. Each method affects the texture and flavor of the squash.
Baking vs. Microwaving
Baking spaghetti squash gives it a richer flavor. Cut the squash in half and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Cook at 400°F for about 40 minutes. This method brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.
Microwaving is faster but may result in a softer texture. Cut the squash in half and microwave for 10-12 minutes. This is great when you’re short on time. The squash will be tender and easy to shred.
Both methods work well. Choose based on your time and taste preferences.
Tips for Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, don’t overcook your spaghetti squash. Test it with a fork after the suggested cooking time.
The squash should be tender but still have some bite.
Let the squash cool for a few minutes before shredding. This makes it easier to handle and helps the strands separate better.
Use a fork to gently scrape the flesh from the skin. Go lengthwise to get longer “noodles”. Avoid using too much force, which can turn the strands mushy.
For firmer strands, remove excess moisture. After shredding, place the squash in a colander and press gently with a clean kitchen towel.