Typically cooked as a vegetable, spaghetti squash is actually a fruit. The hard outer shell has always struck me as totally uninviting, so I have never cooked the fruit before. However, as usual my curious nature finally won out, and I am so glad it did. This simple spaghetti squash recipe is absolutely delicious! Made with a Small Wonder spaghetti squash, it has a very mild flavor which allows you to prepare it in a manner that suits your taste buds. Also, despite that tough outer shell, it is really easy to prepare. The hardest part is slicing it open. But a few well-placed stab wounds and about 3 minutes in the microwave solve that problem. Then just cut the head off and slice it in half and you are good to go. I roasted this recipe with just a smattering of salt and a spritz of olive oil, an oil sprayer makes this an easy task. OMG!!
Spaghetti Squash Pasta
Spaghetti squash has long been heralded as a healthy pasta substitute due to it having a stringy like texture. Once the fruit has roasted until tender, simply use a fork to shred the spaghetti to create a wonderfully healthy ìpastaî alternative. You can then top it with fresh herbs, tomato sauce or cheese for a satisfying, easy weeknight meal. This is where you cue in your creative side. Spaghetti squash pairs well with just about everything.
Preheat oven to 400° Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Rinse spaghetti squash. Remove the head and cut in half lengthwise. If the shell is too hard to cut, pierce with a fork 4 to 5 times and microwave on high for about 3 minutes. This will soften the shell enough to slice it open.
Use a spoon and gently scrape out the seeds.
Spray, or brush, the squash with EVOO and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Lay the squash, cut side down, on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 45 minutes.
Remove squash from the oven and allow to cool. When it is cool enough to handle, use a fork and gently shred the flesh of the squash, from top to tail, to create long strands
Why Healthy Spaghetti Squash
The nutrition in spaghetti squash is not something to sneer at. With only 42 calories and less than Ω gram of fat per cup, dieters everywhere rejoice. This fruit also contains small amounts of just about all vitamins and minerals the body needs. It is a great source of potassium as well as vitamins C and B6.
