Cheesy Spaghetti Squash: A Quick and Delicious Vegetable Dish
Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
If youโre looking for a new way to prepare spaghetti squash thatโs both easy and delicious, this cheesy spaghetti squash recipe is perfect for you. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, itโs an excellent choice for a quick weeknight side dish or a light main course. The addition of parmesan and mozzarella cheese, along with a touch of pimientos and fresh parsley, elevates this simple vegetable into a delightful treat. Originally from Kraft Food & Family magazine (Fall 2003), this dish has become a family favorite and an easy way to enjoy this low-carb veggie in a cheesy, satisfying way.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti squash | 1 medium |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 2 tablespoons |
| Reduced-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded | 1/2 cup |
| Pimientos, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Kosher salt | To taste |
| Fresh ground black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 24.7 kcal |
| Fat | 0.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 1.5 mg |
| Sodium | 36 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 3.9 g |
| Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugar | 0.1 g |
| Protein | 1.1 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:
Start by piercing the spaghetti squash a few times with a fork or sharp knife. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing the squash from bursting in the microwave. -
Cook in the Microwave:
Place the whole spaghetti squash in the microwave and cook it on high for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, carefully turn the squash over and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the squash is soft to the touch. -
Let the Squash Rest:
Once the squash is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the microwave and let it stand for 5 minutes. This gives it time to cool slightly, making it easier to handle. -
Cut and Clean the Squash:
After resting, cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and discard them. You can save one of the squash halves to serve as the “shell” for the dish. -
Scrape the Squash into Strands:
Using a fork, scrape the inside of the squash to create long, spaghetti-like strands. These are the “noodles” that make spaghetti squash such a unique and delicious vegetable. -
Add the Cheeses and Flavorings:
In a large bowl, toss the freshly scraped squash strands with the parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped pimientos, and fresh parsley. Season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until the cheese is evenly distributed and slightly melted from the warmth of the squash. -
Serve:
Scoop the cheesy squash mixture back into the reserved squash shell for a rustic presentation, or serve directly from the bowl. This dish is best served immediately while warm and cheesy.
Tips & Variations:
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add additional vegetables to the mix, such as sautรฉed onions, mushrooms, or spinach, for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it Vegan: Swap the cheeses for plant-based alternatives to make this recipe vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, for a different twist on this cheesy spaghetti squash.
This cheesy spaghetti squash recipe is not only quick and easy but also a delicious way to enjoy a healthy vegetable. With its cheesy goodness and light, fluffy texture, it makes for a satisfying side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Whether youโre looking to reduce carbs or simply try something new, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
