Herbed Spaghetti Squash
Herbed spaghetti squash offers a light, flavorful vegetarian dish with fresh herbs and garlic, perfect for health-conscious diners seeking a satisfying, low-carb meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pierce the squash 6 to 8 times with a fork.
- Place the squash in a layer of paper towel in the microwave; microwave, uncovered, on High for 15 minutes or until soft to touch, turning over every 5 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Combine olive oil and minced garlic in a large bowl; microwave on High for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
- Stir in minced basil, minced oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cut the squash in half and remove the seeds.
- Using a fork, remove spaghetti-like strands from the squash.
- Combine the squash and oil mixture; toss gently.
- Sprinkle with cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of spice. If you don't have fresh basil or oregano, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for each tablespoon of fresh. When microwaving the squash, ensure it’s turned halfway through to cook evenly. For a richer taste, try drizzling with balsamic reduction before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This herbed spaghetti squash pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light, healthy meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as a base for roasted vegetables. It also makes a great side dish for Mediterranean recipes like Stuffed Tomatoes or Greek Cheese Squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover herbed spaghetti squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can sauté it briefly on the stovetop with a bit of olive oil to retain its texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Spaghetti Squash contains roughly 79 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the spaghetti squash in advance?
Yes, you can cook the spaghetti squash ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely after cooking, then store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just reheat it and toss it with the oil and herbs mixture for a quick meal.
What can I do with leftover spaghetti squash?
Leftover spaghetti squash can be used in a variety of dishes. Incorporate it into a vegetable stir-fry, mix it with eggs for a healthy breakfast scramble, or add it to soups for added texture. You can also use it as a base for a pasta dish with marinara sauce.
Is spaghetti squash gluten-free?
Yes, spaghetti squash is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent alternative to traditional pasta for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It's a nutritious way to enjoy your favorite pasta dishes while maintaining a gluten-free diet.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).