What You’ll Need
- Spaghetti squash: Choose one that feels heavy for its size and is free of soft spots or blemishes.
- Sharp, sturdy chef’s knife: For cutting the squash in half.
- Large spoon: To remove seeds and pulp.
- Baking sheet: To roast the squash.
- Olive oil: Adds flavor and prevents the squash from drying.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings.
Methods for Cooking Spaghetti Squash
Here are the most popular methods for cooking spaghetti squash. Choose whichever suits your preference.
1. Roasting
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prep the squash: Cut the squash in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
- Season: Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast: Place squash cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-45 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the flesh.
- Shred: Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the squash into “spaghetti” strands.
2. Microwaving
- Pierce: Poke a few holes in the whole squash with a fork for ventilation.
- Microwave: Place squash on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 5-minute intervals until it yields slightly to pressure when squeezed. (Times vary depending on size).
- Cool and prep: Let squash cool. Cut in half, remove the seeds, and shred.
3. Instant Pot
- Trivet: Place a trivet or steamer basket in the Instant Pot and add 1 cup water.
- Prep the squash: Cut the squash in half, remove seeds, and place cut-side down on the trivet.
- Cook: Seal the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 7 minutes (small squash) to 20 minutes (large squash). Let pressure release naturally for around 10 minutes.
- Shred: When cool, shred the squash with a fork.
Tips
Test for doneness: The squash is ready when you can easily scrape the flesh into strands with a fork.
Avoid overcooking: Overcooked squash becomes mushy.
Be careful when cutting: Cutting a raw squash can be difficult. For easier slicing, microwave the whole squash for a few minutes to soften it slightly.
Serving suggestions: Serve spaghetti squash as a low-carb pasta substitute with your favorite sauce, toss with herbs and butter, or mix with roasted vegetables.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy spaghetti squash!
