Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash is a delicious winter squash loaded with vitamins and nutrients. When cooked, spaghetti squash becomes creamy and tender, similar to pasta. It is an excellent alternative to regular pasta because it contains fewer calories and fat than traditional pasta. However, unlike regular pasta, spaghetti squash does not have any carbs.
Spaghetti squash is high in vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, C, E, K, folate, fiber, iron, manganese, and zinc. Vitamin A helps maintain good vision, while vitamin B-complex vitamins help convert food into energy. Fiber keeps you full longer, while iron helps keep blood cells healthy and strong. Manganese helps produce red blood cells, while zinc aids in bone formation.
Spaghetti squash also contains antioxidants, including beta carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, alpha-carotene, and cryptoxanthin. These antioxidants protect the body from free radicals, which cause damage to DNA and cellular membranes. Free radicals also contribute to aging and cancer. Beta carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, while lutein and zeaxanthin are converted into retinal, which is necessary for night vision. Lycopene is converted into vitamin C in the body. Cryptoxanthin is converted into vitamin D.
Spaghetti squash may also help prevent certain types of cancers. Studies show that people who eat at least two servings of vegetables per day have lower rates of prostate cancer. In addition, those who consume three or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day have lower rates of colon cancer.
The American Cancer Society recommends eating five or more servings of fruit and vegetables daily to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Eating various foods is also recommended to ensure you get enough nutrients.
how to cook spaghetti squash
Total: 1 hr 5 min
Prep: 5 min
Cook: 1 hr
Herbed Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Ingredients for Herbed Spaghetti Squash
- 1 small spaghetti squash, about 2 1/4 pounds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 tablespoons butter
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped mixed soft herbs, such as basil, chervil, chives, sage, and parsley.
Directions for Squash Recipe
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 375 D.F
Step 2
Using a knife, cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place in a baking dish, cut side down. Add enough water to come 1/2 inch up the sides of a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 40 minutes, flip the squash over and cover with foil again and cook for another 15 minutes until the squash is nicely tender. Remove from oven, uncover, and allow to cool. Using a fork, pull the squash strands away from the skin and place the strands in a mixing bowl.
Step 3
Heat a skillet. Add the butter, salt, spaghetti squash, pepper, and herbs, and toss thoroughly but gently to heat and combine. Serve immediately,
