Spaghetti Squash Italian Style
This delightful and healthy Spaghetti Squash Italian Style recipe from Love With Recipes transforms a humble squash into a vibrant, satisfying dish brimming with Italian flavors. Perfect for a light yet hearty meal, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 30 minutes, you can have this flavorful dish ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 medium spaghetti squash: Choose firm and heavy squashes with a hard rind for the best texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity flavor to the dish.
- 1 red onion: Finely chopped, it provides a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
- 8 ounces zucchini: Sliced or diced, zucchini adds a lovely, tender bite.
- 4 ripe tomatoes: Chopped; these add freshness and a touch of acidity.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth.
- 1/2 cup low-fat Parmesan cheese: For a cheesy, savory finish.
- 1 lemon: Sliced, for a burst of citrusy brightness.
Instructions
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Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:
- Begin by cutting the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the seeds from the center of each half using a spoon.
- Place the squash halves cut side down in a glass baking dish. Pour 1/4 cup of water into the dish to create steam which will help cook the squash evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Once cooked, let the squash cool slightly.
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Cook the Vegetables:
- While the squash is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the sliced or diced zucchini to the skillet and continue to cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the zucchini starts to turn golden brown.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Prepare the Squash:
- Once the squash has cooled enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into long, spaghetti-like strands. Place these strands into a large bowl.
- Toss the squash strands with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat them lightly.
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Assemble the Dish:
- For a classic presentation, you can simply toss the squash strands with the cooked vegetable mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- For a more elegant presentation, mound the squash strands in the center of four pasta bowls. Spoon the vegetable mixture around the squash. Drizzle with additional olive oil if desired and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Add a few lemon slices for an extra touch of brightness and a burst of citrus flavor.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 178.6
- Fat: 8.5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1.3 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 197.6 mg
- Carbohydrates: 28.2 grams
- Fiber: 3.8 grams
- Sugar: 5.4 grams
- Protein: 3.8 grams
Servings
This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering of friends. Each serving offers a balanced combination of vegetables and flavors, providing a satisfying yet light meal.
Enjoy this Italian-inspired Spaghetti Squash dish as a delicious and wholesome alternative to traditional pasta. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying the comforting taste of Italian cuisine. Bon appétit! 🍝🍅🧀🍋
