Spaghetti Squash With Tomato Sauce And Cheese

Spaghetti squash is a popular winter vegetable that can be used as a healthy alternative to pasta. It has a mild flavor and a unique texture that resembles spaghetti noodles when cooked. Paired with tomato sauce and cheese, it makes for a delicious and nutritious meal that is easy to prepare. In this article, we will explore the benefits of spaghetti squash, how to prepare it, and how to make a tasty tomato sauce and cheese topping.

The Benefits of Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. It is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a popular choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It is also high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied.

Spaghetti squash is a great source of vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system and protect against infections. It also contains vitamin A, which is important for eye health and skin health. Additionally, spaghetti squash contains potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function.

Overall, spaghetti squash is a nutritious and filling vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

How to Prepare Spaghetti Squash

Preparing spaghetti squash is easy, but it does require some time in the oven. Here are the steps to follow:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
Brush the inside of each half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place the spaghetti squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Remove the spaghetti squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash into long, thin strands.

Now that your spaghetti squash is ready, it's time to make the tomato sauce and cheese topping.

How to Make Tomato Sauce and Cheese Topping

Tomato sauce is a classic topping for spaghetti squash, and it's easy to make from scratch. Here's what you'll need:

Related Spaghetti

1 can (28 oz) of diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

Here's how to make the tomato sauce:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Add the diced tomatoes and dried oregano to the skillet and stir to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until it has thickened.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Now it's time to assemble the dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and follow these steps:

Place the spaghetti squash strands in a large mixing bowl.
Add the tomato sauce to the bowl and mix well to combine.
Transfer the spaghetti squash and tomato sauce mixture to a baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Your spaghetti squash with tomato sauce and cheese is now ready to serve!

Conclusion

Spaghetti squash with tomato sauce and cheese is a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional pasta dishes. It's easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings and seasonings. Whether you're following a low-carb diet or just looking for a healthy and satisfying meal, spaghetti squash is a great choice. Try it out for yourself and enjoy!