Microwave Spaghetti Squash: Quick, Easy, and Delicious Recipes
Spaghetti squash is a fantastic, healthy alternative to traditional pasta. It’s low in carbs, packed with vitamins, and incredibly versatile. But let’s face it, roasting a spaghetti squash in the oven can take a while. That’s where the microwave comes in! This guide will show you how to cook spaghetti squash perfectly in the microwave, plus provide you with a range of delicious recipes to enjoy its unique flavor and texture.
Why Microwave Spaghetti Squash?
* **Speed:** Microwaving drastically reduces cooking time compared to oven roasting. You can have perfectly cooked spaghetti squash in under 20 minutes!
* **Convenience:** No need to preheat the oven, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you just want a quick and healthy meal.
* **Ease:** The microwave method is incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort and cleanup.
* **Nutrient Retention:** Microwaving can actually help retain certain nutrients compared to longer cooking methods.
How to Microwave Spaghetti Squash: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a detailed guide to microwaving spaghetti squash for perfect results every time:
**Ingredients:**
* 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds)
* 1-2 tablespoons of water
* Optional: Olive oil, salt, pepper, or other seasonings
**Equipment:**
* Microwave-safe knife (or a sturdy chef’s knife)
* Microwave-safe plate or dish
* Fork
* Oven mitts
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Squash:** This is the most important step! Spaghetti squash can be tough to cut. To make it easier, poke holes all over the squash with a fork. This allows steam to escape and prevents it from exploding in the microwave. Pierce the squash about 10-12 times.
2. **Cut the Squash (Carefully!):** Place the squash on a stable cutting board. Using a sharp, microwave-safe knife (or a very sturdy chef’s knife), carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise, from stem to blossom end. Be extremely cautious as the skin can be very hard. If you’re having trouble, microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes to soften it slightly, then try cutting it again. Remember safety first!
3. **Remove the Seeds:** Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each half. Discard the seeds (or save them for roasting later!). Make sure you have a clean cavity.
4. **Season (Optional):** Drizzle the inside of each squash half with olive oil (about 1/2 tablespoon per half). Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs at this stage. This is optional, but it adds a nice flavor base.
5. **Add Water:** Place the squash halves cut-side down on a microwave-safe plate or dish. Add about 1-2 tablespoons of water to the plate. This helps to steam the squash and prevents it from drying out. The amount of water depends on the size of your squash; you want a thin layer, not a pool.
6. **Microwave:** Cover the plate with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid. If using plastic wrap, poke a few holes in it to allow steam to escape. Microwave on high for 8-15 minutes, depending on the size of the squash and the power of your microwave. Start checking for doneness around 8 minutes.
7. **Check for Doneness:** Carefully remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts (it will be hot!). Use a fork to test the squash for doneness. The flesh should be easily pierced with a fork and should pull away into strands. If it’s still firm, microwave for another 2-3 minutes and check again.
8. **Shred the Squash:** Once the squash is cooked through, let it cool slightly for a few minutes. Then, using a fork, shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Start from the edges and work your way towards the center.
9. **Serve:** Your microwaved spaghetti squash is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes! Enjoy it as a side dish, a healthy pasta alternative, or in one of the delicious recipes below.
Tips for Perfect Microwaved Spaghetti Squash
* **Choose the Right Squash:** Select a spaghetti squash that is firm, heavy for its size, and free of blemishes. The skin should be a uniform yellow or ivory color.
* **Don’t Skip the Poking:** Poking holes in the squash before microwaving is crucial to prevent explosions.
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** Microwave power varies, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Start with the shorter time range and add more time as needed.
* **Let it Cool Slightly:** Letting the squash cool slightly before shredding makes it easier to handle and prevents you from burning your fingers.
* **Experiment with Seasonings:** Get creative with your seasonings! Try different herbs, spices, and sauces to find your favorite flavor combinations.
Delicious Microwave Spaghetti Squash Recipes
Now that you know how to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave, here are some delicious recipes to try:
1. Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce and Meatballs
This is a classic and comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce
* 1 pound of cooked meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
* Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
* Fresh basil leaves (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. Heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan or microwave.
3. If using store-bought meatballs, heat them according to package directions.
4. Divide the spaghetti squash among plates.
5. Top with marinara sauce and meatballs.
6. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
2. Spaghetti Squash with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 1/2 cup of pesto (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
* Pine nuts (optional)
* Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. Toss the spaghetti squash with pesto and cherry tomatoes.
3. Top with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
3. Spaghetti Squash with Garlic and Olive Oil
This is a simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or a light meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 2 tablespoons of olive oil
* 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Red pepper flakes (optional)
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the spaghetti squash to the skillet and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
4. Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
A healthier take on the classic Italian dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 4 slices of bacon, diced
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons heavy cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, reserving the bacon fat in the skillet.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the spaghetti squash to the skillet with the bacon fat and toss to coat.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the spaghetti squash and bacon. Toss quickly to combine, cooking the eggs slightly from the heat of the squash. Be careful not to overcook the eggs.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
5. Southwestern Spaghetti Squash Bowl
A flavorful and filling bowl with a Southwestern twist.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
* 1/2 cup salsa
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 avocado, diced
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
* Cilantro, chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. In a bowl, combine the spaghetti squash, black beans, corn, and salsa.
3. Top with cheddar cheese, avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and cilantro, if desired.
6. Creamy Vegan Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Mushrooms
A delicious and healthy vegan option.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
* 5 ounces baby spinach
* 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
* 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Garlic powder to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
5. Add the spaghetti squash to the skillet and toss to combine.
6. Heat through and serve.
7. Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash
Combine the deliciousness of baked feta with the healthful benefits of spaghetti squash!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 4 oz block of feta cheese
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh oregano or basil, chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Place the feta in the center of a baking dish. Surround with cherry tomatoes.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the feta is softened and the tomatoes have burst.
6. Mix the baked feta and tomatoes together, mashing the feta slightly.
7. Combine the feta and tomato mixture with the spaghetti squash.
8. Garnish with fresh oregano or basil, if desired.
8. Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Squash
Instead of pasta, use spaghetti squash for a lighter take on this classic dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup dry white wine
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1/4 cup chopped parsley
* Red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the spaghetti squash to the skillet and toss to coat.
8. Serve immediately.
9. Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash
Spice things up with this fun and flavorful recipe!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash
* 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
* 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
* 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Celery sticks, for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
2. In a bowl, combine the spaghetti squash, shredded chicken, and buffalo wing sauce.
3. Top with ranch or blue cheese dressing and cheddar cheese.
4. Serve immediately with celery sticks, if desired.
10. Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Boats
A healthier and fun twist on lasagna!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 microwaved spaghetti squash, halved (cooked squash still in the skin halves)
* 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage, cooked and drained
* 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare and microwave the spaghetti squash. After microwaving, leave the squash in its halved form, within the skin.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef or sausage, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Scoop the spaghetti squash strands out of the skin, leaving a shell of squash. Mix the squash strands with the meat and cheese mixture.
5. Spoon the mixture back into the squash shells.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.
Enjoy Your Microwaved Spaghetti Squash!
Microwaving spaghetti squash is a game-changer for quick, easy, and healthy meals. With these simple tips and delicious recipes, you can enjoy this versatile vegetable any night of the week. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature spaghetti squash dishes. Happy cooking!