Spaghetti Squash Recipes: Beyond The Basics

Spaghetti squash is a versatile winter squash that’s not only delicious but also a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. Its stringy flesh resembles strands of spaghetti when cooked, making it a fun and healthy option for the whole family.

This guide will explore some simple and flavorful spaghetti squash recipes, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. Let’s dive in!

1. Classic Baked Spaghetti Squash

This is the most basic and easiest way to prepare spaghetti squash.

Ingredients:

1 medium spaghetti squash

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.

Scoop out the seeds with a spoon.

Rub each half with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.

Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until tender.

Once cooked, let the squash cool slightly before using a fork to scrape out the strands.

2. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

This recipe adds a touch of Italian flair to your spaghetti squash.

Ingredients:

1 medium spaghetti squash, cooked and shredded

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon butter

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Add shredded spaghetti squash and cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.

Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Serve immediately.

3. Spicy Cajun Spaghetti Squash

This recipe adds a kick of spice to your spaghetti squash.

Ingredients:

1 medium spaghetti squash, cooked and shredded

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup chopped bell pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Add shredded spaghetti squash and cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.

Serve immediately.

4. Vegetarian Chili Spaghetti Squash Boats

This recipe turns spaghetti squash into a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

2 medium spaghetti squash, halved and baked

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, and cumin.

Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until flavors have combined.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Fill each baked spaghetti squash half with the chili mixture.

Top with desired toppings and serve immediately.

5. Mediterranean Spaghetti Squash with Feta and Olives

This recipe offers a flavorful Mediterranean twist.

Ingredients:

1 medium spaghetti squash, cooked and shredded

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lemon, juiced

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine shredded spaghetti squash, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.

Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss to coat and serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks

Roasting is key: Roasting the spaghetti squash in the oven brings out its natural sweetness and creates a tender texture.

Don’t overcook: Overcooking can make the spaghetti squash mushy.

Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combinations. Some other delicious options include marinara sauce, pesto, pesto, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Leftovers: Leftover spaghetti squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Beyond the Basics

Spaghetti squash stir-fry: Stir-fry spaghetti squash with your favorite vegetables and a flavorful sauce for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Spaghetti squash lasagna: Use spaghetti squash as a low-carb substitute for pasta sheets in your favorite lasagna recipe.

Spaghetti squash carbonara: Create a creamy and flavorful carbonara sauce and toss it with shredded spaghetti squash.

Conclusion

Spaghetti squash is a versatile and healthy ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. With a little creativity, you can easily incorporate it into your weekly meal plan.

These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and find what you enjoy most. Happy cooking!