Spaghetti Squash Marinara

Name: Spaghetti Squash Marinara
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 large spaghetti squash; 1 tablespoon olive oil; to taste salt and pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 can (796 mL) crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; to taste salt and pepper

60 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A delightful and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, spaghetti squash marinara is a flavourful and hearty dish perfect for any meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Spaghetti squash marinara is a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy a pasta-like dish without the carbs. This recipe turns the humble spaghetti squash into a delightful base for a rich marinara sauce, offering a perfect balance of flavours and textures. Spaghetti squash, when cooked, transforms into strands that resemble spaghetti, making it a popular alternative for those looking to reduce their carb intake. Paired with a classic marinara sauce, this dish is both satisfying and healthy, suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

Instructions

Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.

Pro tip: Use a sturdy chef's knife to safely cut through the squash.

Roast the Squash

Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 35-40 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Pro tip: Roasting the squash cut side down helps it cook evenly.

Sauté the Aromatics

While the squash is roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

Make the Marinara Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency.

Prepare the Squash Noodles

Once the squash is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape the flesh into long strands, resembling spaghetti.

Pro tip: Hold the squash with a cloth to avoid burning your hands.

Combine and Serve

Divide the squash strands among serving plates and top with the marinara sauce. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro tip: Add fresh basil leaves for a hint of freshness.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Choose a firm spaghetti squash with a uniform colour for even cooking.
Use a fork to scrape the squash strands gently to avoid mashing them.
For a richer flavour, consider adding fresh basil or oregano to the sauce.
Adjust the seasoning of the marinara sauce to your taste preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you cook spaghetti squash in the oven?

To cook spaghetti squash in the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C), cut the squash in half, remove seeds, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast cut side down for 35-40 minutes.

What is the best way to cut spaghetti squash?

Use a sturdy chef's knife to cut the squash in half lengthwise. Be careful as the squash can be tough to cut. Stabilize it on the cutting board and apply even pressure.

Can you make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti squash and marinara sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them when ready to serve.

Is spaghetti squash healthy?

Yes, spaghetti squash is a low-calorie, low-carb alternative to pasta, rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.

How do you know when spaghetti squash is done roasting?

The squash is done when the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. The strands should separate easily when scraped with a fork.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your spaghetti squash marinara with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.

Nutrition per serving

220

Calories

Protein

10g

Fat

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