Spaghetti Squash With Black Beans And Corn
Spaghetti squash is a winter vegetable that is low in calories and high in nutrients. It has a unique texture that resembles spaghetti noodles, making it a great alternative to pasta. Combined with black beans and corn, this spaghetti squash recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. In this article, we will show you how to make this easy and nutritious dish.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
Most of these ingredients can be found in your local grocery store. If you can't find spaghetti squash, you can substitute it with other types of squash such as acorn or butternut squash.
Instructions
Here are the steps to make Spaghetti Squash With Black Beans And Corn:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon. Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side down, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
- While the squash is baking, prepare the filling. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Add the garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper and cook for another minute.
- Add the black beans and corn to the skillet and stir well. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro and lime juice.
- Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into long strands. Divide the squash strands between four plates and top with the black bean and corn filling. Serve immediately.
This recipe makes four servings, so you can enjoy it with your family or friends. You can also store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Benefits of Spaghetti Squash With Black Beans And Corn
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Spaghetti squash is low in calories and high in fiber, which makes it a great choice for weight loss. It also contains vitamin C, potassium, and beta-carotene, which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system and strong bones.
Black beans are a good source of protein and fiber, which can help you feel full for longer and prevent overeating. They also contain iron, folate, and magnesium, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood cells and preventing anemia.
Corn is a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide energy for your body. It also contains fiber, vitamin C, and folate, which are important for maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing birth defects.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Squash With Black Beans And Corn is an easy and nutritious dish that you can make at home. It's a great alternative to pasta and can help you maintain a healthy weight. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and delicious. Try it today and see for yourself how tasty and healthy it can be!