Learn how to bake or microwave spaghetti squash, then top with your favorite sauces or seasonings!
Spaghetti Squash
Ingredients
1 whole spaghetti squash, rinsed under running water
Topping ingredients as you choose
Directions
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Cut the squash in half lengthwise, crosswise or in 1-inch rings. If squash is too tough to cut, microwave or bake for a few minutes until squash is warm to the touch and soft enough to cut.
- Remove seeds and stringy fibers with a spoon.
- Cook squash. The squash flesh should be easily pierced by a fork when done.
Microwave (shortest cooking time). Place squash cut side down on a microwave-safe dish with 1 to 2 tablespoons water. Cook on HIGH for about 12 minutes for a medium sized squash. Time will vary depending on size of squash and power of the microwave. Squash is done when the shell can be pierced with a fork and the flesh separates into strands.
Bake in the oven. Choose a baking temperature between 350 to 425 degrees F. Line a baking dish with foil for easier clean up.
- For a “roasted” flavor, rub cut edges with a little vegetable oil (optional), place cut side down in the pan and bake uncovered.
- For a “steamed” texture, add ½ cup water to the pan and cover with foil.
Check for doneness after about 40 minutes. Larger squash and lower oven temperatures may take longer to cook. Squash is done when the shell can be pierced with a fork and the flesh separates into strands. - Let sit for 10 minutes or until squash is cool enough to handle. Use a fork to gently scrape the inside of the squash to make spaghetti-like strands.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Notes
- Season the squash with a little salt and pepper or try nutmeg, onion or garlic powder.
- Top with your favorite pasta sauce. Try our Quick Tomato Pasta Sauce.
- Try sautéed mushrooms, onions or other veggies.
- Add a sprinkling of cheese.
- Include beans, tofu, cooked chicken, or cooked meat to make a one dish meal.
You might also like...
Baked Zucchini Sticks
Baked Zucchini Sticks
A tasty and simple way to prepare zucchini for dipping into your favorite sauce.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
8 cups
Peach Yogurt Smoothie
Peach Yogurt Smoothie
A sweet, creamy, and refreshing smoothie that makes a wonderful on-the-go breakfast or afternoon treat.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Personal Salad in a Bag
Personal Salad in a Bag
A customizable salad in a bag that is perfect for a simple lunch. Add your favorite vegetables and salad dressings to make a fast and easy meal.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Coconut Chicken Salad
Coconut Chicken Salad
This simple and fresh-tasting chicken salad is our version of chicken kelaguen, a favorite recipe from Micronesia. Enjoy the blend of crisp vegetables, chicken, coconut, hot peppers and fresh lemon. Excellent the next day, too!
Prepare:
20 to 30 minutes
Makes:
5 cups
Spinach and Black Bean Enchiladas
Spinach and Black Bean Enchiladas
A tasty combination of black beans and veggies wrapped in tender tortillas, covered in a flavorful tomato sauce, and topped with creamy mozzarella cheese.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
8 enchiladas
Baked Tortilla Chips
Baked Tortilla Chips
Simple homemade tortilla chips. Great recipe to get the kids cooking!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
16 Chips
Comments
The first time I made this for the family they were skeptical -- but now they love it!