How to Use Spaghetti Squash Instead of Noodles
Developing recipes that use spaghetti squash instead of traditional noodles offers many benefits. The spaghetti squash is considered a "super food," as it is an excellent source of potassium, vitamin A and folic acid. It is also high in fiber and low in sodium. Spaghetti squash can substitute in many dishes that call for traditional noodles, and, for most, its substitution does not render traditional dishes tasteless or inedible. Replacing traditional noodles with spaghetti squash can offer a nutritionally sound solution to people suffering digestive discomfort from gluten sensitivity and also for those looking to incorporate more nutrient-dense foods into their diet. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Fresh spaghetti squash
- Knife
- Spoon
- Olive oil or other cooking oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fork
- Mixing bowl
Instructions
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1
Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
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2
Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and loose strands with the spoon.
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3
Place both halves of the squash skin side down on the cookie sheet. Brush each one with 2 tsp. of oil. Season the squash to taste with salt and pepper.
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4
Wrap the top of each piece of squash with aluminum foil.
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5
Place the cookie sheet in the oven. Test the squash for doneness at around 30 minutes by piercing the flesh with the fork. The flesh should be tender and not resist being pierced. If the squash is not done, continue checking every five minutes. The total cook time should not exceed one hour.
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6
Remove the cookie sheet from the oven and let the squash cool for up to ten minutes. If the squash is left unattended for too long, it can become hard to work with.
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7
Use the fork to scrape the flesh of the squash from top to bottom. It will peel away in strands.
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8
Collect the squash in a mixing bowl. Incorporate it into recipes that call for traditional noodles.
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Tips & Warnings
When using spaghetti squash in pasta recipes, take into account the fragile nature of the vegetable. Avoid overcooking in dishes that require long periods of hot preparation, both over an open flame and in the oven.
References
- Photo Credit Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images
