Parmesan Herb Microwave Spaghetti Squash | Super Easy Squash Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Do you have to cut spaghetti squash in half before cooking it? ›

You need to cut your spaghetti squash in half before cooking it. Don't let spaghetti squash's hard shell scare you! I've got the trick for cutting spaghetti squash safely (watch our video to see me do it).

Yes, it is possible to cook pasta in the microwave. Place your pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with water and microwave on High for the same amount of time stated on the packet directions, plus 3 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and stir in your favourite pasta sauce.

Give the slices a touch of salt, but not too much! Adding too much salt can cause the squash to get too watery as it cooks. And then you'll be left with mushy strands. You're only seasoning to cook the squash here, and you can add more salt once it has cooked to actually season it to your taste.

Scoop the seeds out, place it cut side down on a pan with sides that has been oiled and cook until tender - a knife inserts through the skin and easily into the flesh. It doesn't matter as far as the cooking goes. The squash doesn't know the difference. Up and down is the only way to do it correctly.

Start by making several large slits through the skin with the tip of a sharp knife. This helps the air release as your squash heats up (so your squash doesn't explode when you microwave it). Next, microwave the squash on high for approximately 3-5 minutes to soften the skin, which makes it easier to cut.

Then, prick the skin all over the squash with a fork. Piercing the skin will help safely release steam while the squash gently heats in the microwave. Remove the stem if it is still attached.

If the microwave is your only option, that's OK. You can still achieve delicious reheated pasta. To achieve the perfect taste and texture, dump your pasta into a microwave-safe dish, and add a few drops of water or sauce. This will keep the pasta from sticking together and drying out.

Although it resembles spaghetti – another long, thin pasta – angel hair is much finer. This delicate shape is best used with simple, light sauces and vegetables, such as pesto sauce or a primavera dish.

Pour around 400ml boiling water over the top – you want to ensure the pasta is completely covered. 2 Microwave on high for 4-5 mins, then give it a good stir so it doesn't stick. Return to the microwave and heat on high for 2 mins intervals, stirring it each time. It should take around 9-10 mins for al dente pasta.

I find that adding too much oil and too much salt at this stage makes the squash a bit watery, so a light drizzle and a light sprinkle will do. Then, poke a few holes in the skin of the squash with a fork and place it cut side down on a baking sheet. Pop it in a pre-heated 400°F oven.

What is wrong with my spaghetti squash? ›

Roasting the wrong way up

Water is released when the squash cooks and it just sits in the little boat, making the spaghetti squash strands too moist and mushy, instead of being like separate noodles. This is an easy fix — just roast your spaghetti squash cut side down.

That's a long time, but it would be a mistake to use spaghetti squash once it's started going bad. Some small unsavory spots can be cut away, but you'll want to toss the squash if it feels mushy, soft, or hollow.

To get long, luxurious twirl-able strands of Spaghetti Squash, you should cut it into rings before roasting it! For cooking of the spaghetti squash preheat your oven to 400° (F). Slice squash as close to 1 inch rings as you can. Remove squash seeds with a smaller knife or spoon.

Insert the tip of your sharp knife into the middle of the squash. Gently push the knife down towards the cutting surface. Rotate the squash around a bit and again pull the knife down (carefully) towards the cutting surface. At this point, the squash should easily crack apart, exposing the inedible seeds inside.

Baking spaghetti squash whole in the oven

My favorite way to cook spaghetti squash is to bake it whole in the oven because there is no prep work, no need to lose a finger trying to cut through the raw tough outer layer, and no mess.