How to cook spaghetti squash

Spaghetti squash is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be used as a healthy substitute for traditional pasta. Its mild flavor and stringy texture make it an excellent base for various sauces and toppings. If you're wondering how to cook spaghetti squash, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll provide step-by-step instructions for cooking spaghetti squash using different methods. So, let's dive in!

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and discard them.
• Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides of the squash and season with salt and pepper.
• Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Bake for about 40-50 minutes or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
• Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
• Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the squash to create spaghetti-like strands.
• Serve with your favorite sauce or toppings.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave:

• Pierce the spaghetti squash in several places with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape during cooking.
• Place the whole squash on a microwave-safe dish.
• Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then carefully turn the squash over.
• Continue microwaving in 5-minute intervals until the squash is tender. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the squash, but it typically takes around 10-15 minutes.
• Remove the squash from the microwave and let it cool for a few minutes.

• Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and use a fork to scrape out the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
• Season with salt, pepper, and your preferred toppings.
• How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in an Instant Pot:
• Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot.
• Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
• Place a trivet or steamer basket inside the Instant Pot.

• Put the squash halves on the trivet or in the basket, cut side up.
• Close the lid, set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure, and cook for 7-8 minutes.
• Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
• Carefully remove the squash from the Instant Pot and let it cool slightly.
• Use a fork to scrape out the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
• Season with your favorite sauce or toppings.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in an Air Fryer:

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
• Rub the cut sides of the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Place the squash halves, cut side down, in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flesh is tender.
• Remove the squash from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes.
• Use a fork to scrape out the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
• Season as desired and serve.

Tips:

You can cook spaghetti squash whole, but make sure to pierce it with a knife before cooking to prevent it from bursting.

To save time, you can cook spaghetti squash in advance and store the cooked strands in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Experiment with different toppings and sauces such as marinara, alfredo, pesto, or a simple garlic and olive oil combination.

Spaghetti squash can also be used in salads, stir-fries, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Now that you know the different methods for cooking spaghetti squash, you can enjoy this healthy and delicious vegetable in various ways. Get creative with your toppings and sauces, and savor the goodness of this versatile alternative to pasta.