Inspirations by Nancy

Cooking with Nancy O: Parmesan Spaghetti Squash Bake: A Simple and Nutritious Meal

Episode Summary

Quick, nutritious meals made simple with spaghetti squash! Join Nancy as she whips up a quick and nutritious spaghetti squash meal that doesn't skimp on flavor or health benefits. Discover the rich vitamin and mineral content of spaghetti squash and learn how to use it as a tasty pasta substitute. Nancy provides step-by-step guidance on seasoning, baking, and even suggests pairing it with homemade sauce and your choice of cheeses. Perfect for busy lifestyles, this dish can be pre-made and easily reheated, offering a convenient and healthy meal option. Whether you're looking to add protein or keep it vegetarian, this versatile dish has you covered. Tune in for invaluable cooking tips that will enhance your health journey! Check out Nancy’s YouTube page to see the full cooking show and get even more out of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@cookingwithnancyo

Episode Notes

“Like religion, politics, and family planning, cereal is not a topic to be brought up in public. It's too controversial." - Erma Bombeck

Episode Summary:

Quick, nutritious meals made simple with spaghetti squash!

Join Nancy as she whips up a quick and nutritious spaghetti squash meal that doesn't skimp on flavor or health benefits. Discover the rich vitamin and mineral content of spaghetti squash and learn how to use it as a tasty pasta substitute. Nancy provides step-by-step guidance on seasoning, baking, and even suggests pairing it with homemade sauce and your choice of cheeses. Perfect for busy lifestyles, this dish can be pre-made and easily reheated, offering a convenient and healthy meal option. Whether you're looking to add protein or keep it vegetarian, this versatile dish has you covered. Tune in for invaluable cooking tips that will enhance your health journey!

Check out Nancy’s YouTube page to see the full cooking show and get even more out of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/@cookingwithnancyo

In This Episode:

Using spaghetti squash as a healthy alternative to pasta.
The health benefits of spaghetti squash, packed full of vitamins and minerals.
Baking and shredding the squash creates a noodle-like texture that can be used in various recipes.
Ways to add flavor and freshness to the dish.
Creating a delicious and cheesy finish.
The dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for quick and easy meals.

Today’s Recipe: Parmesan Spaghetti Squash Bake

Parmesan Spaghetti Squash Bake Recipe

Ingredients:

Spaghetti squash, halved and seeded
Homemade tomato sauce (or your choice of sauce)
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Halve the spaghetti squash and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.
Bake the Squash:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. The baking time may vary depending on the size of the squash.
Shred the Squash:
- Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. Using a fork, shred the inside to create spaghetti-like strands, leaving the shell intact.
Season:
- Season the shredded squash with salt and pepper. Add dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Add Sauce and Cheese:
- Fill the squash halves with your homemade tomato sauce, covering the shredded squash thoroughly.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella over the sauce.
Final Bake:
- Return the squash to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, sprinkle finely grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like basil or oregano before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish can be served as a main course or a side dish. For a complete meal, add grilled chicken or fish for additional protein.

Storage:

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

For an even quicker meal, prep the squash in advance and store in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake with sauce and cheese when ready to eat.

Enjoy this healthy, comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a nutritious work-from-home lunch. Give it a try and experience how simple ingredients can transform into a delicious meal.

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