You know, sometimes life feels like a whirlwind of chaos, doesn’t it? And in the midst of it all, finding a moment of zen—like unraveling the mysteries of a spaghetti squash in the microwave—seems like a tiny miracle. The other day, while juggling a dozen tasks and contemplating the latest Marvel movie release, I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe. It’s so simple yet so satisfying, like rediscovering an old song that suddenly feels brand new.
Steps
- Use a sharp knife to cut the spaghetti squash in half crosswise. If your squash is particularly large, slice it into 2-inch thick rings instead.
- Scoop out the seeds from the center of each squash half using a large spoon. You can choose to discard the seeds or roast them separately, similar to pumpkin seeds.
- Place one half of the squash in a microwave-safe glass container and add two tablespoons of water to the dish.
- Cover the container with a lid, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. If your container lacks a lid, use a microwave-safe silicone lid.
- Microwave the squash for 8 to 12 minutes, depending on your microwave’s wattage. Begin checking at 7 minutes and continue in 1-minute or 30-second intervals until the strands easily separate from the skin when scraped with a fork.
- Allow the cooked squash to cool for about 5 minutes before using a fork to scrape out the strands. Repeat the process for the other half of the squash.
- Season the cooked spaghetti squash to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add your favorite sauce to enhance the flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash (approximately 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 100kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 9g
FAQ
- What is the quickest method to cook spaghetti squash?
- The fastest ways to cook spaghetti squash are by microwaving or using a pressure cooker like the Instant Pot. Microwaving is particularly convenient when the Instant Pot is occupied with another dish.
- Is it safe to use a microwave for cooking food, including spaghetti squash?
- Yes, cooking food in a microwave is considered safe, as research suggests that microwaving does not destroy nutrients, nor is the microwave itself unsafe. However, it’s recommended to use glass containers instead of plastic to avoid any chemical transfer to food.
- How should I cut spaghetti squash for the best noodle-like strands?
- For long, noodle-like strands, cut the spaghetti squash crosswise through the center. This method allows the flesh, which runs in concentric rings, to form longer strands when cooked.
- What type of containers are best for microwaving spaghetti squash?
- Glass containers are ideal for microwaving spaghetti squash. Products like Anyday bowls, which have unique vented lids, are recommended for even cooking. If unavailable, a glass baking dish with a lidded silicone cover can also be used.
- How can I store and reheat cooked spaghetti squash?
- Store cooked spaghetti squash in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use a covered and vented microwave-safe dish and microwave for 45 to 90 seconds, or sauté in a pan over medium heat with some olive oil until heated through.
Tips
- When cutting spaghetti squash, slice it crosswise to achieve longer strands, which mimic traditional noodles more closely. Use a sharp knife for easier cutting, and avoid microwaving the whole squash to cut it, as this could lead to uneven cooking or explosions if not pierced properly.
- For optimal microwave cooking, place the spaghetti squash in a glass container with two tablespoons of water and cover with a lid that leaves a small vent. This setup helps steam the squash evenly without the risks associated with plastic containers.
- Start microwaving the squash at 7 minutes, checking for doneness, and continue in 1-minute intervals until the strands are easily separable with a fork. Adjust the cooking time based on your microwave’s wattage for the perfect texture.
- After cooking, season the spaghetti squash with salt, pepper, or your preferred seasoning blend to enhance its naturally mild flavor. Top with your favorite pasta sauce to enjoy a delicious low-carb meal.
Equipment
- Sharp Paring Knife – Essential for cutting the spaghetti squash in half.
- Anyday Bowls – These are specific microwave-safe glass containers with vented lids, recommended for even steaming.
- Microwave-Safe Silicone Lid – Useful if your glass container doesn’t come with a lid.
- Lidded Glass Baking Dish (e.g., CorningWare) – Alternative to Anyday bowls, if not available.
- Large Spoon – For scraping out the seeds from the squash.
