My small raised garden is full of lovely leaves of zuchinni and squash, hopefully ready to share some hint of bounty soon. I’ve been watching it like a (hungry) hawk!
Much more than a trend, zuchinni and spaghetti squash have now become a part of my recipes at home – a super easy way to reduce calories (and carbs, if you’re watching them) while still giving you volume on your plate. I love spaghetti squash with meat sauce when we’re having a pasta night, but was annoyed at having to heat up the oven to steam the squash first. Now, using the microwave, I don’t have to – which is a huge help in the hot summer months especially.
If you haven’t tried it yet, here’s how:
First, poke some holes in the squash all over like you do with a potato before baking. You need to ensure steam can escape. Pop the whole squash in the microwave for about 3-5 minutes (depending on the size, a small one like this 3 minutes will do) to soften enough to cut in half.
Now, use a knife to score it all the way around, and then cut in half. It will be hot already, so use care!
Once in half, gently scoop out the seeds.
Place both halves face down in a casserole dish with just enough water to cover the bottom. Since you’ve already given it a head start in steaming, you’ll only need another 3-5 minutes depending on the size of your squash. I did 3 minutes to start on this one and 4 at the end – you’ll need to play with times a bit to figure out what works based on the size of your squash.
Now the fun part! Use a fork to scrape all the lovely spaghetti squash stands from the sides of the vegetable.
Transport to a bowl and then decide how you’re going to devour it today! Spaghetti sauce on top is my favorite, but you could also sprinkle it with some salt and pepper and eat it ‘au naturel’ as well.
I just recently discovered the yumminess of spaghetti squash! This makes cooking so much easier!
Love spaghetti squash! Thanks for this blog!
WOW, love that you can cook spaghetti squash in the micro wave!!! I hate turning the oven on in the summer, thanks so much for this alternative approach!
Microwaving it before cutting it; sure makes it easier to cut!
I think I like the IDEA of spaghetti squash more than I like it in real life :0 But you’ve almost converted me.
I do my spaghetti squash in my Instant Pot and turns out awesome, but I have done it in the oven as well, just never the microwave
I haven’t cooked spaghetti squash in the microwave. I usually use the oven
This is how I cook mine too but I don’t start it whole, I cut in half and de-seed while raw then steam it. I imagine it comes out the same. 🙂
I have never tried Spaghetti Squash but think I might try it 🙂
We love spaghetti squash thanks for the tips!
I haven’t done a spaghetti squash in awhile. Thanks for this tip to cut down on cooking time.
I assume that I’m one of the few who doesn’t like squash but then I don’t like pumpkin either. 🙂
We love curried chicken on spaghetti squash.
I’ve never tried spaghetti squash but it looks delicious so I’ll have to give it a try. The one thing I wonder is, is it strong flavored or not much flavor ?
I have never had spaghetti squash, it looks delicious!
Looks good. I’ll have to try this.
I have never tried spaghetti squash before but will soon.
Sooo good! I love spaghetti squash. My friends made it for me a few months ago and I have made it ever since.
Believe it or not I have never eaten spaghetti squash. It does look good though.
I have tried this before and it is delicious.. a nice change from pasta!
So good! I make a greek version that is great as well, highly recommended!
Wow – I never thought of doing spaghetti squash in the microwave – what a timesaver.
Yum! I’ve always done it in the oven, but it’s a great idea to try the microwave, especially when it’s hot outside and I don’t want the oven to warm up the house even more!
So easy and yummy – love spaghetti squash! This makes it even quicker.
Have to say I have never tried to cook spahetti squash, really should one of these days.
I love spaghetti squash! I’ve never made it in the microwave though!
Spaghetti squash is a family favorite. SO many possibilities!
I love spaghetti squash but have never had great luck cooking it. Will try it in the microwave next time
I love Spaghetti Squash and usually cook in in the oven. Thanks for the microwave tips. I eat my squash with a little bit of butter ,parm cheese and salt and lots of pepper. Love it and oh so healthy. 🙂
I cook Spaghetti Squash in the microwave often. My daughter loves this quick and healthy dish.
I love spaghetti squash with just a little butter, salt and lots of pepper. Cooking it in the microwave would definitely keep the heat down in the house during the summer.
I will have to try this next time