Cure Your Weeknight Hunger: Cooking Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave

Spaghetti squash, once considered a bit of an oddity, has become a favorite among home cooks for its versatility and convenience. This low-calorie and nutritious vegetable can be easily prepared in the microwave, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. This guide will walk you through the simple steps of cooking spaghetti squash in the microwave, from preparation to serving.

Ingredients

1 spaghetti squash

Instructions

Prepare the Squash

Wash the spaghetti squash thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Carefully pierce the squash several times with a knife or fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.

Microwave Cooking

Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish. You can lay it on its side or cut it in half lengthwise if you prefer. If you cut it in half, scoop out the seeds and place the halves cut side down in the dish. Add a couple of tablespoons of water to the dish to create steam. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam.

Cooking Time

Microwave on high for about 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the size of the squash. Start with 8 minutes and check for doneness. The squash should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Check for Doneness

If it’s not done, continue microwaving in 2-minute increments until tender.

Let it Cool

Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the dish from the microwave; it will be hot. Let the squash cool for a few minutes before handling.

Scrape and Serve

Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape out the flesh. The squash will naturally come out in strands, resembling spaghetti. Serve with your favorite sauce or toppings.

Tips for Enhanced Flavor

If you prefer a slightly caramelized flavor, consider roasting the squash in the oven instead of microwaving it.

You can season the spaghetti squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper before serving for added flavor. Some chefs even opt for an aromatic sauté before serving to add a unique twist to the dish.

Alternative Sauté Method

After cooking the spaghetti squash, heat some butter and olive oil in a sauté pan. Add plenty of minced garlic and crushed spices like cumin and coriander. Sauté until the garlic is cooked and the spices are aromatic.

Carefully open and seed the squash, then tease out the strands and toss them in the butter. Add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, chives, or even basil. For a richer taste, include some crumbled feta cheese and season with salt to taste.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious spaghetti squash dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!