|
If you're looking for a dish that's new and fun but still heart-healthy and diet-smart, give spaghetti squash a try. Like the better-known acorn squash, spaghetti squash are classified as winter squash, which just means that they're harvested in the autumn and can be stored over the colder months. They're easy to prepare and easy to enjoy!! One of the best things about squash is that while they're low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories, they're high on nutrition. Spaghetti squash is a good source of vitamin C, niacin, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, potassium and manganese. They're excellent source of dietary fiber; they help the digestion work efficiently and have a huge "fullness factor" - a healthy helping of squash will keep you feeling full and satisfied for a long time. Uncooked spaghetti squash are large and heavy with a golden-yellow outer skin and firm yellow flesh. The real fun of spaghetti squash is only obvious after they're cooked; the flesh of the cooked squash shreds into long strands that are very much like thin spaghetti! Because the flavor of spaghetti squash is very mild, they take well to most sauces and make an outstanding substitute for pasta. But they're good as-is, too: a well-cooked spaghetti squash with salt, pepper, and a bit of butter is a delicious autumn treat. Cooking spaghetti squash really couldn't be easier! How To Cook Spaghetti Squash - Oven Method - Use a sharp knife or strong pointed skewer to create "vents" all over the squash (this will keep the skin from bursting during cooking) - Place squash in shallow oven-proof dish or pan and bake at 375 degrees for about one hour. Test for doneness by inserting knife - when it slides in smoothly with no resistance the squash is done. How to Cook Spaghetti Squash On The Stove - Put the whole squash into a large pot and fill with enough water to completely cover the squash. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and continue to boil for about a half hour, or until a fork can be easily inserted. Preparing Cooked Spaghetti Squash: - Allow squash to cool enough to handle, then cut it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop of the dense area of seeds and stringy fibers in the center of each half. - Now the fun part!!! Use a fork to gently scrape the cooked flesh away from the skin. The cooked squash will separate into surprisingly spaghetti-like strands! You can use the squash "spaghetti" as a simple side-dish with butter and seasonings (and perhaps a shake or two of grated Parmesan) or with any of your favorite sauces. For more healthy eating ideas, check out my articles on good-for-you holiday treats like sugar free peanut butter cookies, sugar free raisin date squares, and sugar free cookie recipes for diabetics.
Related Articles -
spaghetti, squash,
| 
