Looking for a quick, healthy side dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make? This microwave spaghetti squash recipe is the perfect solution for busy days when you still want something wholesome and delicious.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to turn this humble squash into a rich, buttery delight. Whether you’re looking to add more veggies to your meals or searching for a lighter alternative, this recipe will become your new go-to.
Just 5 INGREDIENTS for your Spaghetti Squash in Microwave
Create a delicious and comforting dish with just these simple ingredients:
- 1 Spaghetti Squash: The star of the recipe! Once cooked, its tender strands mimic spaghetti, offering a nutritious, low-calorie, and low-carb alternative to pasta. Packed with vitamins, it’s both wholesome and versatile.
- 3 Tablespoons Butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture and enhances the natural sweetness of the squash. Melts perfectly to coat every strand for an indulgent flavor.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt: Elevates the flavors of the squash while balancing the buttery richness.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper: Adds a touch of mild heat, complementing the natural sweetness and richness of the dish.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Paprika: Brings a smoky warmth and a vibrant color, making the dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
These five ingredients combine effortlessly for a quick, flavorful side dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying!
Easy Microwaving Spaghetti Squash Instructions
Here’s how to prepare this delicious spaghetti squash in the microwave:
- Prep the Squash: Begin by carefully cutting the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Use a sturdy knife, as the outer skin can be tough. Once halved, scoop out the seeds and the fibrous strands from the center of each half, leaving only the firm flesh. This step ensures that your squash will have the perfect texture once cooked.
- Add the Butter: Place 1 tablespoon of butter in each half of the squash. As the squash heats up, the butter will melt and seep into the flesh, adding a rich, creamy flavor to each strand.
- Season to Perfection: Sprinkle each half with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. The salt enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, while the pepper adds a gentle kick. The paprika not only brings a smoky flavor but also gives the squash a beautiful golden hue.
- Wrap it Up: Loosely wrap each half of the squash in plastic wrap. Make sure the wrap isn’t too tight—leave some room for steam to escape. Poke a few holes in the plastic to allow the steam to vent, which helps the squash cook evenly.
- Microwave Magic: Place the wrapped squash halves in the microwave and cook on high for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the flesh is tender and pulls away easily with a fork, resembling strands of spaghetti. Be cautious when removing the squash from the microwave, as it will be hot and the steam can escape quickly.
- Finishing Touches: Once the squash is cooked, remove the plastic wrap and carefully scoop out the strands using a spoon or fork. If you’re in the mood for a little extra indulgence, feel free to add another tablespoon of butter to the hot squash. The heat will quickly melt the butter, coating the strands in a smooth, velvety layer of richness.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve the squash hot, straight from the microwave. It’s the perfect side dish, light yet satisfying, and full of flavor.
This method transforms a simple squash into a delicious, comforting dish with minimal effort!
Quick Microwave Spaghetti Squash Recipe: Flavor-Packed and Guilt-Free
Looking for a quick, healthy side dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make? This microwave spaghetti squash recipe is the perfect solution for busy days when you still want something wholesome and delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and fibrous strands.
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Place 1 tablespoon of butter in each half of the squash.
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Season each half with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
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Loosely wrap the squash halves in plastic wrap and poke a few holes in the plastic.
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Microwave on high for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
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Remove the squash from the microwave, discard the plastic wrap, and scoop out the center with a spoon.
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(Optional) Add another tablespoon of butter for extra richness, allowing it to melt over the hot squash.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
