Spaghetti Squash In Instant Pot Whole
Have you ever heard of spaghetti squash? It's a type of winter squash that, when cooked, has a stringy, spaghetti-like texture. Not only is spaghetti squash delicious, but it's also incredibly healthy. It's low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals. Plus, it's a great alternative to traditional pasta for those who are gluten-free or looking to cut back on carbs.
What is an Instant Pot?
Before we dive into the recipe for spaghetti squash in an Instant Pot, let's talk about what an Instant Pot actually is. An Instant Pot is a multi-cooker that can be used to pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, and more. It's a versatile kitchen appliance that can save you time and make meal prep a breeze.
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in an Instant Pot
Cooking spaghetti squash in an Instant Pot is incredibly easy. Here's how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 cup of water
Instructions:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center of the squash.
- Place the trivet into the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.
- Place the squash halves onto the trivet, cut side up.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 7-8 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash into spaghetti-like strands.
- Enjoy!
Ways to Serve Spaghetti Squash
Now that you know how to cook spaghetti squash in an Instant Pot, you might be wondering how to serve it. Here are a few ideas:
1. With Tomato Sauce
Top your spaghetti squash with your favorite tomato sauce, and you have a delicious and healthy pasta alternative.
2. With Pesto
For a twist on traditional pasta, try topping your spaghetti squash with pesto. It's a delicious and flavorful combination.
3. With Meatballs
If you're looking for a heartier meal, try serving your spaghetti squash with meatballs. It's a classic combination that's sure to satisfy.
Benefits of Eating Spaghetti Squash
Not only is spaghetti squash delicious, but it's also incredibly healthy. Here are a few benefits of eating spaghetti squash:
1. Low in Calories
One cup of cooked spaghetti squash contains only 42 calories. That's about one-fifth the calories of traditional pasta!
2. High in Vitamins and Minerals
Spaghetti squash is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
3. Gluten-Free
For those who are gluten-free, spaghetti squash is a great alternative to traditional pasta.
Conclusion
Cooking spaghetti squash in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious and healthy vegetable. Whether you serve it with tomato sauce, pesto, or meatballs, spaghetti squash is a versatile ingredient that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.