How to cook spaghetti squash in 4 different ways

Spaghetti squash is a favourite of many, and for good reason. Although from the exterior, it appears to be a typical squash, when cooked and separated, its interior strands resemble noodles. The spaghetti squash is the ideal cooking base because of its mild, slightly sweet flavour and texture that resembles angel hair. You can play around with a traditional Bolognese, add pesto, or even use it in place of rice noodles in pad Thai.

Now, for those who do not know what spaghetti squash is, here is a short explanation.

What is spaghetti squash?

Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that has a stringy, noodle-like flesh that is perfect for replacing traditional pasta in many dishes. This versatile vegetable is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great option for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake or add more vegetables to their diet.

Let’s explore the basics of cooking spaghetti squash and offer some tips and recipes to help you get started.

How do you cook spaghetti squash?

Cooking spaghetti squash is a simple and versatile process that can result in a delicious and nutritious dish. Whether you prefer to bake, boil, microwave, or roast the squash, the end result will be spaghetti-like strands that can be used in a variety of dishes. 

Whether you prefer a simple spaghetti squash with tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese, or a more elaborate stir-fry with vegetables and protein, this squash is a great base for many different meals. So next time you’re looking for a low-carb or vegetable-packed alternative to traditional pasta, give spaghetti squash a try. You won’t be disappointed!

To begin, you will need to select a ripe spaghetti squash. How do you know when spaghetti squash is ripe? Choose a heavy squash with a dull, hard skin. Avoid squashes with soft spots or bruises, as these can indicate that the squash is overripe or has been damaged.

Next, you will need to prepare the squash for cooking. 

How to prepare spaghetti squash for cooking

Start by washing the outside of the spaghetti squash and patting it dry. Now, spaghetti squash is a tough vegetable, so you will need to cut it in half lengthwise, from stem to tail, using a large, sharp knife. Using a regular spoon, scoop out the squash seeds and the stringy pulp from the centre of each half. You can roast the seeds as you would pumpkin seeds, or just toss them away.

Seasoning the Squash

Brush the inside of each spaghetti squash half with a drizzle of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Be sure to add other seasonings like garlic powder, dried herbs, or red pepper flakes to add extra flavour. Thereafter, your spaghetti squash is ready for cooking.

There are several methods for cooking spaghetti squash, including baking, boiling, microwaving, and roasting.

How to cook spaghetti squash in oven cut in half

Roasting spaghetti squash is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Here's how you can roast spaghetti squash to perfection:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place your spaghetti squash halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. The exact roasting time depends on the size of your squash, so keep an eye on it and check it regularly to avoid over-roasting.

Once the spaghetti squash is done roasting, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, use a fork to gently shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. The strands will separate easily and can be used in place of pasta in a variety of dishes, including those with crayfish. Because of its versatility, spaghetti squash is easy to turn into a quick dinner.

How to bake spaghetti squash

Baking is a simple and straightforward method for cooking spaghetti squash. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminium foil. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the skin is tender when poked with a fork.

How to boil spaghetti squash

Boiling spaghetti squash is a quick and easy method for cooking this delicious vegetable. 

• Put water into a large pot and bring it to a boil. 
• Add the spaghetti squash halves to the pot. Boil the squash for 20-30 minutes, or until it is tender when poked with a fork. 
• Remove the pot from the stove and let the squash cool for a few minutes. Use a fork to gently scrape the spaghetti squash flesh from the skin and separate it into spaghetti-like strands. 
• Serve the boiled spaghetti squash as is, with a chicken curry or a homemade sizzling steak, better yet, use it in your favourite recipes for a nutritious and delicious dish.

How to cook spaghetti squash in microwave

Microwaving spaghetti squash is a quick and simple way to enjoy this nutritious and delicious vegetable. It’s probably the best way to cook spaghetti squash. With just about 10 minutes in the microwave, you can have a ready-to-use base for your meals.

If you are struggling to cut the squash, microwave it for about 3 minutes just to tenderise it, then cut it. Do not attempt to microwave it and cook it whole because it will burst open.

Once cut in half, simply put the spaghetti squash halves facing down in a microwaveable dish and add a bit of water (about an inch) to help with the steaming process.

This is the tricky bit, as too much water will mean your squash will come out too soft and mushy, and your spaghetti strands will be short. Microwave it on high for 5 to 10 minutes, or until soft. Once it’s done, run your fork through it - the same way the squash strands are running, and you'll have yourself healthy noodles to serve with this amazing Japanese pork belly recipe.

Spaghetti squash recipes

Spaghetti squash can be served as a side dish or used as a base for a main course. Some popular ways to enjoy roasted spaghetti squash include:

• Tossing the shredded squash with marinara sauce and grated cheese
• Mixing the squash with sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers and onions
• Adding the squash to soups or stews for a boost of nutrition and flavour.

Here are some more spaghetti squash recipes to enjoy with your loved ones:

• Lasagna-stuffed spaghetti squash
  
• Spaghetti squash with asparagus, ricotta, lemon and thyme
  
• Feta spaghetti squash
  
• Mexican spaghetti squash
  
• Italian sausage spaghetti squash