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America's Test Kitchen Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is a winter squash that gets its name from its unique stringy flesh that resembles spaghetti noodles. This tasty and nutrient-rich vegetable is a great alternative to traditional pasta and can be used in a variety of dishes. In this article, we'll take a closer look at America's Test Kitchen spaghetti squash and explore some delicious recipes that you can try at home.

What is Spaghetti Squash?

Spaghetti squash, also known as vegetable spaghetti, is a winter squash that is harvested in the fall. The squash can vary in size, but typically weighs between 2 and 4 pounds. The skin of the squash is yellow and hard, while the flesh is a pale yellow color and has a stringy texture that resembles spaghetti noodles.

Spaghetti squash is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great choice for those looking to eat healthier. It is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, and also contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals.

One of the great things about spaghetti squash is that it can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be roasted, boiled, or microwaved, and can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to create different flavors.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash

There are several ways to cook spaghetti squash, but roasting is one of the easiest and most popular methods. Here's how to do it:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
  3. Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the flesh can be easily scraped out with a fork.

Once the squash is cooked, you can use a fork to scrape out the flesh, which will come out in long, spaghetti-like strands.

America's Test Kitchen Spaghetti Squash Recipes

Now that you know how to cook spaghetti squash, it's time to try some delicious recipes. Here are three recipes from America's Test Kitchen that are sure to become family favorites:

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

This delicious recipe puts a healthy twist on a classic carbonara dish. The spaghetti squash replaces the pasta, and the dish is made with turkey bacon and low-fat milk to reduce the fat content.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
  • 1/2 cup low-fat milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Drain any excess liquid from the spaghetti squash and add it to the skillet with the turkey bacon. Pour the egg mixture over the spaghetti squash and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are set and the dish is heated through.

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

This recipe is a healthier version of the classic lasagna dish. The spaghetti squash replaces the pasta, and the dish is made with ground turkey and low-fat cheese to reduce the fat content.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 jar marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey until browned. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Add the marinara sauce and dried basil to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  5. Layer the spaghetti squash, turkey mixture, and cheese mixture in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai

Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai

This recipe puts a healthy twist on the classic Pad Thai dish. The spaghetti squash replaces the rice noodles, and the dish is made with chicken and a homemade peanut sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Cook the spaghetti squash according to the instructions above.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken until browned. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Add the chicken broth, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti squash into the skillet with the chicken mixture. Stir to combine.
  5. Top with chopped peanuts and cilantro before serving.

Conclusion

Spaghetti squash is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional pasta. It is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great choice for those looking to eat healthier. With its unique stringy texture, spaghetti squash can be used in a variety of dishes, from carbonara to lasagna to pad Thai. By trying these recipes from America's Test Kitchen, you can incorporate this versatile vegetable into your diet and enjoy all of its health benefits.

Related video of America's Test Kitchen Spaghetti Squash: A Delicious and Nutritious Alternative to Pasta

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