SPAGHETTI SQUASH: RECIPES + TIPS ON HOW TO COOK IT
Spaghetti squash is a yellow-fleshed fruit-vegetable that’s native to Central America. Its name comes from the fact that once cooked, its flesh is long and stringy in appearance, like spaghetti. It grows in abundance in Quebec, and yet not too many people are familiar with it; it can be prepared in a multiple of ways, and its mild taste and tender texture make it perfect for both sweet and savoury dishes! Read on for three delicious ways to prepare this winter squash that comes from the cucurbita family!
A TOUCH OF SALT!
1- Stuffed
Healthy recipe + comfort food = the perfect combo! A creamy sauce, mozzarella cheese, and roast chicken are all you need to make this flavourful autumn dish: Alfredo chicken-spinach-stuffed spaghetti squash. Nutritious and delicious, it’s bound to WARM and FILL you up! For a lactose-free version, replace the cream-based Alfredo sauce with a soy-based sauce, and for a vegetarian version, swap the chicken out for tofu. Enjoy!
2- In lieu of your favourite pasta
Whether to switch things up, or simply to get the kids to eat more veggies, spaghetti squash is a great alternative to traditional pasta. Elevate your dinner game with this recipe for spaghetti squash with marinara sauce and meatballs. Using spaghetti squash in lieu of pasta means dinner will be healthier, lower in calories, and still delight your taste buds. Top with cheese for an extra dose of comfort!
SPAGHETTI SQUASH FOR DESSERT? YES, IT’S TOTALLY POSSIBLE!
3- Dessert is served!
Because spaghetti squash is so versatile, it pairs well with almost any flavour profile. Looking for an original dessert recipe? Try our spaghetti squash and pecan pie! This recipe is healthy and decadent, and is sure to impress your guests! Plus, it can be prepared with most types of winter squash: butternut, acorn, pumpkin, etc.
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR COOKING SPAGHETTI SQUASH
1-Easy cut and cook
No need to get out your hammer and saw to crack open your squash! Using your sharpest knife, cut off the squash’s two ends, making sure not to remove too much of the actual flesh. Next, carefully cut your squash in two lengthwise, leaving the seeds intact. Place on a baking sheet and cook in the oven at 375 degrees for an hour, an hour and a half, depending on size. Once cooked, remove from the oven and using a spoon, scoop out the seeds. Next, use a fork to scrape out the flesh. That’s it!
2- Microwave-ready
Cooking squash in the microwave is easy and great for when you’re pressed for time! Simply pierce a few holes in the squash using the the tip of a knife, then microwave on medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on size. If your squash still isn’t cooked after 10 minutes, continue to cook in 30-second increments. Your squash is done once the tip of a knife easily penetrates the skin.
3- How to store squash + its nutritional value
Spaghetti squash is a winter veggie that’s harvested in September and October. One of its characteristics is its ability to keep months if stored in a cool, dark place with proper ventilation. Its flesh pairs perfectly with ham, leeks, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. In addition to having fewer calories than pasta, spaghetti squash also boasts several nutrients, such as vitamin C and potassium. Looking for a last-minute appetizer? Simply drizzle your spaghetti squash with olive oil, season with salt, and roast in the oven until done!
4- Side suggestions
If serving your squash as a side, consider making a cold salad (cook your squash first) featuring homemade dressing, currants, fresh herbs such as cilantro and dill, carrots, and roasted peppers. You can also opt to serve your squash warm with roasted kale, bacon, goat cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Or try it straight out of the oven with olive oil, pesto, salt, and pepper—the perfect side to serve with meat!
Want to learn more about squash? Discover everything you need to know about squash here!