Spaghetti Squash With Basil And Garlic
If you are looking for a healthy and delicious meal that is both easy to prepare and budget-friendly, spaghetti squash with basil and garlic is the perfect option. This dish is not only low in calories and high in fiber, but it also provides a rich source of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. In this article, we will show you how to prepare this mouth-watering recipe step by step, and highlight the key nutritional benefits of each ingredient.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that is native to North America. It gets its name from the fact that when it is cooked, the flesh of the squash can be easily separated into spaghetti-like strands. This makes it an excellent substitute for pasta in many dishes, as it has a similar texture and can be paired with a wide variety of sauces and seasonings.
The Nutritional Benefits of Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash is a highly nutritious vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber. It is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. Some of the key nutritional benefits of spaghetti squash include:
- Low calorie: One cup of spaghetti squash contains only 42 calories, making it an excellent choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- High fiber: Spaghetti squash contains 2.2 grams of fiber per cup, which can help to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Spaghetti squash is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and manganese, all of which are important for overall health and wellbeing.
- Antioxidant properties: Spaghetti squash contains a range of antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which can help to protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Ingredients
Now that we have highlighted the nutritional benefits of spaghetti squash, let's take a look at the ingredients you will need to prepare this delicious meal:
- 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let's take a look at how to prepare this delicious and healthy meal:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
- Brush the inside of each half with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet, and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily separates into strands.
- While the squash is baking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan, and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Remove the pan from heat, and stir in the chopped basil.
- When the squash is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash into a bowl, separating it into spaghetti-like strands.
- Add the garlic and basil mixture to the bowl, and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Conclusion
Spaghetti squash with basil and garlic is a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. This dish is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. By following the simple instructions outlined in this article, you can prepare this mouth-watering recipe in no time and enjoy all the nutritional benefits that spaghetti squash has to offer. So why not give it a try today?
