Spaghetti squash is large and yellow and a great substitute for pasta. It’s easy to cook and is gluten-free, lower in carbs and calories, and vegan alternative to spaghetti noodles with full of healthy nutrients like fiber, calcium, potassium, magnesium and niacin. Once cooked, it is easy to scrape into spaghetti-like strands that have nearly the same texture, flavor, and color of spaghetti.

Select a squash that is firm, has a hard rind, and feels heavier than it looks. Squash that is soft should be avoided.

Cooked spaghetti squash looks much like spaghetti and can be used in your favorite pasta recipes. You can also serve the squash along with pasta in a dish to lower the carbs and calories while enjoying just a little pasta.

I normally cook the spaghetti squash the two ways that I have written below, but my favorite way is the microwave method as it is the easiest method, and faster way to cook.

Microwave Method:

Score the squash in a few places. Place it on a plate and microwave on high for 10 to 12 minutes.

Tip: Cooking time depends on the size of spaghetti squash, 10 minutes for small to medium and 12 minutes medium to large.

Once cooked, let it cool for few minutes, then cut into half carefully, as it would be hot.

Scrape the seeds out with the help of a spoon.

Then using a fork separate the inside fiber into strands.

Sprinkle salt and pepper, a dash of Olive oil

Garnish with coriander leaves and enjoy!

 

Oven Method:

Preheat oven at 190^oC

Cut the squash into two slices.  You need to be real careful while cutting the squash, It takes muscle and a sharp knife or cleaver to cut it, and this can be dangerous. It is also more work to scrape out the seeds and pulp when the squash is raw.

Tip: You could nuke it in the microwave for about 4-5 minutes so slicing becomes easier.

Rub a little olive oil, salt and pepper on the squash flesh and place the rind side up (cut side down) on a baking pan and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 30 to 40 minutes.

Once cooked, let it cool for few minutes, then use a fork to separate the inside fiber into strands.

Garnish with coriander leaves and enjoy!