Spaghetti Squash In The Instant Pot
If you're looking for a healthy and delicious way to enjoy pasta, look no further than spaghetti squash. This versatile vegetable can be used in a variety of dishes, and it's especially easy to prepare in an Instant Pot. In this article, we'll show you how to make spaghetti squash in the Instant Pot, and give you some ideas for toppings and sauces to make it even more delicious.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that, when cooked, has flesh that separates into long, thin strands that resemble spaghetti. It's a great alternative to traditional pasta, because it's lower in calories and carbs, and higher in fiber and nutrients. Spaghetti squash can be baked, boiled, or microwaved, but using an Instant Pot is the quickest and easiest method.
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Instant Pot
Here's what you'll need:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 cup water
- Instant Pot
Instructions:
- Wash the spaghetti squash and cut off both ends.
- Use a sharp knife to pierce the skin all over the squash.
- Place the squash in the Instant Pot, along with 1 cup of water.
- Close the lid and set the valve to "sealing."
- Press the "manual" or "pressure cook" button and set the timer for 7 minutes.
- When the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then use the quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the squash from the Instant Pot and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and stringy bits from the center.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash into long, thin strands.
- Serve the spaghetti squash with your favorite toppings and sauce.
Delicious Toppings and Sauces for Spaghetti Squash
Now that you know how to cook spaghetti squash in the Instant Pot, it's time to get creative with toppings and sauces. Here are some ideas:
Tomato Sauce
For a classic spaghetti experience, top your spaghetti squash with tomato sauce. You can use a store-bought marinara sauce, or make your own by simmering canned tomatoes with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs.
Pesto
Pesto is a flavorful sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It's a great choice for spaghetti squash, because it adds a lot of flavor without a lot of calories.
Alfredo Sauce
If you're in the mood for something creamy, try topping your spaghetti squash with Alfredo sauce. This rich and decadent sauce is made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, and it pairs perfectly with the mild flavor of spaghetti squash.
Meatballs
For a hearty and satisfying meal, add some meatballs to your spaghetti squash. You can use beef, turkey, or even vegetarian meatballs, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
Spaghetti squash is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, and cooking it in the Instant Pot is quick and easy. With a variety of toppings and sauces to choose from, there's no limit to the delicious meals you can create with spaghetti squash. Give it a try, and see for yourself how tasty and satisfying it can be.