Forktionary

Spaghetti Squash

Cucurbita pepo Vegetable

Spaghetti Squash Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

"Transforming a humble gourd into guilt-free, fibrous "pasta" for healthier meals."

Definition

A yellow-orange winter squash that, when cooked, produces spaghetti-like strands of flesh, offering a low-carb alternative to pasta.

Fiber Content (per 100g cooked) ~1.5g
Optimal Storage Conditions Cool, Dry Place (50-55°F / 10-13°C)
Water Content ~92%

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Spaghetti Squash are:

Mild slightly sweet nutty

Chef’s Secret

To achieve longer, firmer "noodles," cut the spaghetti squash horizontally into rings rather than vertically before roasting or steaming. This cuts across the strands instead of along them.

Best Substitutes

Zucchini Noodles

Ratio 1:1

Shirataki Noodles

Ratio 1:1

Cauliflower Rice

for texture not strand
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose firm, heavy squash free of soft spots or blemishes. Look for a uniform yellow color.

Culinary Pairings

Marinara sauce pesto olive oil and garlic meatballs roasted vegetables cheese

Recipes Using Spaghetti Squash

Southwest Spaghetti Squash image
Course Main Ingredient Spicy Low Carb

Southwest Spaghetti Squash

This vibrant Southwest Spaghetti Squash recipe is a low-carb vegetarian dream! The naturally sweet spaghetti squash perfectly complements the spicy blend of tomatoes, beans, and Southwestern spices. A quick and easy weeknight meal, ready in under 2 hours, that's both satisfying and healthy.

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Anaheim Shrimp Scampi image 101
Seafood 30 Minutes Or Less Preparation Seafood

Anaheim Shrimp Scampi

Dive into a low-carb delight! This vibrant Anaheim Shrimp Scampi is bursting with flavor. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter, then tossed with creamy avocado, sharp Asiago cheese, and a hint of white wine for an unforgettable taste. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight meal for low-carb lovers.

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Bacon Spaghetti Squash image
Low Cholesterol Time To Make Equipment Low Cholesterol

Bacon Spaghetti Squash

Unleash the fun with this easy Bacon Spaghetti Squash recipe! Spaghetti squash, known for its unique texture and versatility, gets a savory makeover. This simple recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish. Discover why this 'fun squash' is a kitchen must-have!

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Baked Spaghetti Squash With Jalapeno Cream image 109
Easy 4 Hours Or Less Preparation Side Dishes

Baked Spaghetti Squash With Jalapeno Cream

Indulge in this creamy, cheesy, and spicy Baked Spaghetti Squash, inspired by Sunset Magazine! This mac-and-cheese-style twist on a classic features roasted spaghetti squash loaded with a jalapeño cream sauce. We've elevated the original recipe with extra cheese, vibrant jalapeños (for a delightful crunch!), and a touch of spice. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Pasta With Shrimp Eggplant image
Low Calorie Low Saturated Fat Low Calorie Low Sodium

Pasta With Shrimp Eggplant

Craving pasta but watching your carbs? This delicious Shrimp and Eggplant recipe is the perfect low-carb alternative! Enjoy tender eggplant, succulent shrimp, and flavorful spaghetti squash that mimics the taste and texture of pasta without the guilt. A quick and easy weeknight meal that's both satisfying and healthy!

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Baked Spaghetti Squash Casserole image
Preparation Vegetables One Dish Meal Seasonal

Baked Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Transform humble spaghetti squash into a hearty, flavor-packed casserole! This surprisingly delicious recipe, inspired by BH&G, is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. Tender squash is layered with savory sausage, mushrooms, and a rich cheese sauce – a satisfying and healthy meal the whole family will love. Get ready to impress!

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Baked Chicken With Spaghetti Squash image 123
Vegetables Low In Something 3 Steps Or Less Squash

Baked Chicken With Spaghetti Squash

This recipe combines juicy baked chicken with tender spaghetti squash for a healthy and flavorful one-pan meal! The chicken is perfectly seasoned and the spaghetti squash offers a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. Get ready for a taste sensation that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make!

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Middle Eastern Style Spaghetti Squash image 110
Side Dishes Side Dishes Preparation Main Dish

Middle Eastern Style Spaghetti Squash

Transform bland spaghetti squash into an exotic delight with this vibrant Middle Eastern-inspired recipe! A quick and easy 25-minute meal bursting with warm spices, crunchy almonds, and a zesty orange finish. Perfect for a healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner.

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