what's for dinner wednesday - spaghetti squash

if you've never had spaghetti squash, you are missing out.  it's a fun squash to prepare and really tasty too.  today you guys get to see a super easy recipe for baked spaghetti squash with garlic and butter.  i didn't take my own pictures this time but please check out Jaden's pictures here.  it's really worth it!  and don't be put off by the cook time...

Baked Spaghetti Squash with Garlic and Butter

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 60 min

Baking time really depends on how big your squash is - try to get the smallest one, especially if you’re only feeding 4 people. It’s ready if you can pierce the squash with a paring knife with little resistance. If you’re a garlic lover, don’t be shy - use more!

Alternatively, microwave the whole squash for 2-4 minutes (to soften enough to cut lengthwise). Place squash cut-side down on baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes until tender.


Ingredients:

1 small spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds)
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1/4 cup finely minced parsley (or basil)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375F. Bake spaghetti squash for 60 minutes, or until a paring knife pierces easily through skin with little resistance. Let squash cool for 10 minutes.

2. Cut squash in half, lengthwise. Use a fork to remove and discard the seeds. Continue using fork to scrape the squash to get long, lovely strands. If the squash seem difficult to scrape, return the squash to bake for an additional 10 minutes.

3. Heat a large saute pan with the butter and the garlic over medium-low heat. When garlic becomes fragrant, add parsley, salt and spaghetti squash strands. Toss well, sprinkle in the parmesan cheese and taste to see if you need additional salt. The spaghetti squash should have a slight crunch (i.e. not mushy) - but if you like it softer, cover the pan and cook 2 more minutes.


i served this with a nice green salad and pita bread on the side.  it's one of my favorite vegetarian meals.  i know some people like to use spaghetti squash as a subsitute for pasta noodles.  does anyone else have a favorite way to prepare this squash?