If you haven’t substituted spaghetti squash for actual spaghetti, you’re missing out. On most days when I want to eat something light, I prefer the squash to it’s carby counterpart. The biggest inhibition you may have to spaghetti squash is the prep-work, but I promise, it’s actually fairly easy! We’re also sharing a bunch of spaghetti squash recipes that will become a staple in your household.

How to Prep a Spaghetti Squash

The most daunting task. Cutting into a big, thick skinned gourd without injuring yourself. For years, I avoided spaghetti squash and butternut squash because I didn’t know how to cut it, but let me tell you, it’s pretty dang simple. The secret is, use your microwave to soften and then bake it in the oven.

How to Cook a Spaghetti Squash

Name: How to Cook a Spaghetti Squash
Ingredients: Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients

Spaghetti Squash

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and lightly grease a baking tray with olive oil.
Get your spaghetti squash and with a SHARP knife cut the stem and bottom off.
With your sharp knife, carefully perforate a line holding the squash horizontally. Go all the way around the circumference of the squash.
Microwave for 3-4 minutes. This will soften it and make it easier to cut.
Let it cool and then using the perforation, cut the squash in half.
Remove the seeds and then season with salt, pepper and olive oil.
Place cut side down on the greased baking sheet and cook for 30-45 minutes dependant on how cooked your want it. We like it al-dente at 35 minutes.
Enjoy!

So now that you’re an expert at prepping the spaghetti squash, here are some delicious recipes to make with it.