How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash is a delicious alternative to spaghetti. Some of my kids even like it just as much, if not better, than spaghetti itself! Here is how to cook spaghetti squash in the oven to make your family go back for more!
Spaghetti squash is easy to grow. If you aren’t the gardening type, it is easy to find it at farmers markets or your local grocery store. Just look for it in the produce department.
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
First, you’ll cut the squash lengthwise.
Then, using a spoon, remove the seeds and pulp. We like to save our seeds, especially if it is a good squash! We use the same method as we did for saving pumpkin seeds.
Then, lightly drizzle some olive oil and using a brush or your hands, spread it around both pieces of the squash. Lightly salt it.
Place the cut side down onto a parchment paper lined pan.
Bake at 400 degrees for 35-40 minutes until it is fork tender.
Turn the two pieces of squash over. Using a fork, slide the ends across to form strands until it is all removed from the outer shell.
Enjoy!
Why Choose Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, where the typical pasta does not. It contains Vit C, Manganese, B6, potassium to name a few. More health benefits can be found on WebMD. There is a lot of fiber in spaghetti squash, making it filling.
Tips
It can be tricky to cut spaghetti squash, so make sure to use a sharp knife, cutting board and keep small children back while you cut it.
We like to pair ours with spaghetti sauce and meatballs.
Have you made spaghetti squash? Did it help to learn how to cook spaghetti squash? How do you do it?
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1-2 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 pinch black pepper optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, cut vertically the long way so you end up with two ovals.
- Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and the pulp. Save the seds for planting next year or roast them.
- Drizzle the halves with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and using a brush or your hands, spread it around the inside of the squash.
- Place cut side down onto the parchment lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the squash is fork tender, lightly browned and you can dent the outside. It is hot, so don't burn yourself!
- When it is done, remove from oven. Turn over the squash so it is cut side up. Use a fork to fluff the strands and scrape it around to remove more.
- Optional: Add butter, herbs, brown sugar or just enjoy plain or with spaghetti sauce.
