Spaghetti Squash Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is a good way to eat spaghetti squash? ›

Your squash is cooked when the outside can easily be pierced by a fork. The downside to cooking a squash whole is that it is easy to mistake the stringy seeds for the edible (and delicious) squash strands. So, I opt to cut and deseed my spaghetti squash before cooking when time allows.

Use a knife to cut the seeds and pulp from the center of the rings. Place the rings on a wire rack set inside a sheet pan and salt the cut side on both sides of each ring. Let sit for about 20 minutes. Once 20 minutes have passed, remove the excess moisture from the squash with a paper towel.

Cook in the microwave for 4 to 5 minutes on high to soften (you MUST make slits before putting it in the microwave to let steam escape). Remove the squash from the microwave, using a dish towel or oven mitt. Cut the squash in half lengthwise along the slits you made, and slice off the stem.

Colon Health

Because of the appearance of spaghetti squash, you might assume that it is rich in fiber. It has over 2 grams per serving, which is more than regular pasta but not as much as many other vegetables. Fiber in the diet contributes to colon health by increasing the regularity of bowel movements.

Spaghetti squash is a winter vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Due to its low calorie content and high fiber content, it may aid weight loss and digestive health. Try roasted spaghetti squash as a low carb alternative to pasta, combined with veggies, protein, whole grains, and healthy fats.

It will go from a soft creamy white to a brilliant yellow. Look for an even golden yellow color for ripe spaghetti squash. If there is uneven coloring on the skin of the squash such as green spots or streaks, or the squash is partially yellow, it is unripe.

Tips for how to easily cut it

Spaghetti squash is very firm, so cutting it isn't always easy. Here are our tips for how to safely and more easily cut it: Make sure your cutting board is sturdy and not sliding around (we like to lay a flat kitchen towel between the counter and cutting board to give it more grip!)

Don't Overcook!

You know spaghetti squash is done when the flesh of the squash is fork-tender inside, the outsides are turning golden, and when you press on the outside of the squash, it gives a little. If you overcook the squash, it will be mushy. (Cooking a smaller squash? Be sure to check it a little earlier.)

Roasting the wrong way up

Water is released when the squash cooks and it just sits in the little boat, making the spaghetti squash strands too moist and mushy, instead of being like separate noodles. This is an easy fix — just roast your spaghetti squash cut side down.

Should you keep spaghetti squash in the fridge or counter? ›

Whole raw spaghetti squash can be stored for up to two months in a cool (55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit), dry location such as the pantry. Whole raw spaghetti squash also keeps well in the refrigerator although it spoils more quickly than in a cool, dry place mentioned above.

Best Knife To Cut Spaghetti Squash

First things first, you need a sharp knife. A chef's knife at least 8 inches long should do the trick. A larger knife allows you to cut through the entire squash at once. You can also use a small pairing knife, but those can get stuck easily and are tricky to dislodge.

Dogs can eat spaghetti squash in moderation. The vitamins in spaghetti squash support your dog's immune system, and the fiber can contribute to a healthy gut. However, the rind can be a choking hazard, and the seeds can lead to digestive system issues.

Cut fruits from vines and handle carefully. Sun cure by exposing fruits for 5-7 days or cure indoors by keeping squash at 80-85°F/27-29°C with good air ventilation. STORAGE: Store at 50-60°F/10-15°C, 50-70% relative humidity and good ventilation.

I love to grill it, roast it, and even eat it raw, but lately, I've been hooked on this sautéed yellow squash recipe. Yellow squash itself has a mild flavor, so I toss it with a bright herb oil as soon as it comes off the heat. Then, I pile on a savory panko topping for crunch.

They look like mini butternut squash and are particularly sweet. Honeynut squash are especially delicious roasted with a little cinnamon and butter. The only winter squash skin to avoid eating altogether, even if well cooked, is spaghetti squash because of its thick, eggshell-like quality.

Either way, winter squash is great for roasting to bring out their mostly sweet flavor. On the other hand, summer squash varieties include yellow squash and pattypan, which are softer and more mild. They're great for grilling, sautéing, or even eating raw!

As a certified executive chef, Tiner says the short answer is simple: Yes, you can. "You can eat raw squash, however, the taste may not be to everyone's liking," Tiner notes. "Squash contains a toxin known as Cucurbitacin E, which can give the squash a bitter taste.