Ina Garten’s Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Ina Garten, renowned for her approachable and elegant cooking style, offers a delightful take on spaghetti squash that transforms this humble vegetable into a gourmet experience. Her recipe emphasizes simplicity and flavor, making it accessible for home cooks seeking a healthy yet indulgent dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Spaghetti squash serves as a nutritious, low-carb substitute for traditional pasta, aligning with various dietary preferences.​
• Flavorful Simplicity: Ina’s method enhances the squash’s natural sweetness with quality olive oil, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a dish that’s both straightforward and sophisticated.​Ina Garten Cooks
• Versatile Usage: This recipe can stand alone as a light main course or complement a variety of proteins and sauces as a side dish.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti squash​
• Good olive oil​Food Network
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper​salted sugared spiced™+3Food Network+3deannasdaughter.com+3
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese​
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish​Belles Best Bites

Directions

1. Prepare the Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.​
2. Season: Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.​Ina Garten Cooks
3. Roast: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 35-40 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily separates into strands with a fork.​Food Network+2Belles Best Bites+2Ina Garten Cooks+2
4. Shred: Allow the squash to cool slightly. Using a fork, scrape the flesh to create long, spaghetti-like strands.​Food Network+2Ina Garten Cooks+2Belles Best Bites+2
5. Serve: Transfer the strands to a serving dish. Toss with additional olive oil, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Adjust seasoning to taste.​Belles Best Bites

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 2 to 4 servings, depending on the size of the squash and portion preferences.​
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes​thekitchn.com+4YouTube+4salted sugared spiced™+4
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes​
• Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes​Dixie Delights

Variations

• Garlic Infusion: Sauté minced garlic in olive oil and toss with the roasted squash strands for an aromatic twist.​Ina Garten Cooks
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a subtle heat that complements the squash’s sweetness.​
• Herbaceous Notes: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: Gently warm the squash in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated through.​Ina Garten Cooks

FAQs

How do I safely cut a spaghetti squash?

Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut off the ends, then slice the squash in half lengthwise. If the squash is particularly hard, microwaving it for 2-3 minutes can soften the skin, making it easier to cut.​Ina Garten Cooks

Can I cook spaghetti squash in the microwave?

Yes, after halving and seeding, place the squash cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with a bit of water. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes until tender.​Belles Best Bites

How can I tell when the squash is fully cooked?

The flesh should be easily pierced with a fork and separate into spaghetti-like strands when scraped.​

Is it necessary to remove the seeds before cooking?

Yes, removing the seeds ensures even cooking and a better texture in the finished dish.​

Can I freeze cooked spaghetti squash?

While possible, freezing may alter the texture, making it more watery upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.​

What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

Pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a hearty marinara sauce for a complete meal.​

How can I enhance the flavor of the squash?

Incorporate additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a sprinkle of nutmeg to deepen the flavor profile.​

Is spaghetti squash suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, it’s low in carbohydrates and can be a great addition to a ketogenic meal plan.​

Can I prepare the squash ahead of time?

Absolutely. Roast the squash in advance and store the strands in the refrigerator. Reheat and season just before serving.​

What other cheeses work well with spaghetti squash?

Besides Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano, feta, or goat cheese for different flavor variations.​

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s approach to spaghetti squash showcases how simple ingredients and techniques can elevate a dish to new heights. This recipe not only offers a wholesome alternative to traditional pasta but also provides a canvas for a variety of flavors and pairings. Whether you’re seeking a light main course or a complementary side, this spaghetti squash recipe is sure to impress with its balance of healthfulness and gourmet appeal.

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