Spaghetti Squash With Summer Vegetables
A vibrant and healthy vegetarian dish featuring tender spaghetti squash topped with fresh summer vegetables, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for light, flavorful meals.
Ingredients
- 3 lb. spaghetti squash ⓘ
- 1/4 c. water ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. chicken flavored bouillon granules ⓘ
- 1/4 c. hot water
- 2 medium zucchini squash, sliced ⓘ
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced ⓘ
- 1 medium carrot, scraped and grated ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 c. sliced green onion ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Wash the spaghetti squash and cut it in half lengthwise; remove and discard the seeds.
- Place the squash, cut side down, in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish; add 1/4 cup water to the dish.
- Cover with heavy-duty plastic wrap and microwave on High for 20 to 22 minutes, rotating and rearranging at 8-minute intervals.
- Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Drain the spaghetti squash and allow it to cool.
- Remove 4 cups of spaghetti-like strands using a fork and set aside.
- Sauté sliced zucchini, yellow squash, grated carrot, chopped green pepper, and sliced green onion until tender.
- Mix the cooked vegetables with the spaghetti squash strands.
- Stir in chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or onion to the vegetable mix. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon granules. You can also experiment by adding other summer vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the dish. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad. You can also top it with additional grated cheese or a dollop of pesto for added flavor. Consider serving with Mediterranean recipes for a themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, then heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Squash With Summer Vegetables contains roughly 210 calories, with 17g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (136% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and potassium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. At about 210 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 use a different type of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti squash with other types of squash like butternut or acorn squash. However, the texture and cooking time may vary. Make sure to adjust accordingly, as these squashes may not yield the same spaghetti-like strands as spaghetti squash.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make this dish more filling, consider adding cooked protein such as shredded chicken, beans, or tofu. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to enhance the meal's heartiness and nutritional value.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spaghetti squash and sauté the vegetables a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving. This way, you can just reheat and enjoy a quick, healthy meal.
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).