Spaghetti Squash

I bought a spaghetti squash yesterday at the farmer's market.  What do I do with it now???  Never tried it but I've heard good things.

I am a big fan of spaghetti squash! I just wa**** pierce it all over with a fork a few times, then put it in a baking dish in the microwave. Zap it for 8 minutes then turn over and cook another 8 minutes. Check if it's done by sticking a fork in it-if it slides in easily, it's done. If not, keep cooking it for 3 minutes at a time until it's soft. Then, slice in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Shred the remaining squash lightly with a fork, then put it a bowl. As a side dish I usually toss with salt and pepper and put a pat of regular or browned butter on top. Or, I skip the butter and serve with pasta sauce-it's great! It's also delicious topped with fresh bacon bits, or mixed with caramelized onion.

If you already have the oven on, cut it in half, seed it and put it face down in a baking dish with a little water.  When soft, shred crosswise so it comes out looking like spaghetti noodles.  You can also boil it, but I also do it in the microwave. 

Other option?  Under sauteed shrimp in place of spaghetti !!  I love it this way, although my little tummy can't each much more than the 2 shrimp !!! 

I love spaghetti squash.  I also cut it in half, scoop out the seeds (found an ice cream scoop works the best), then face down in water and bake in the oven for about 45 to 50 minutes.  I just like it better in the oven.  I usually fix spaghetti sauce just like I would for regular spaghetti.  I will sautee some onions and green peppers and also brown some white ground turkey meat, add the sauce and pour over the squash that you scrape out with a fork to make strands.  My kids even love this.  Also seen it cooked with Alfredo sauce.  Michael

I ended up cooking it in the microwave for 12 minutes. It is fantastic!!!   LOVE IT and will be going to the market to buy more to cook and freeze.  Even the kids liked it so its a go for a family meal!!!  YEAH love the WLS friendly meals  that are also family friendly.