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Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spinach Spaghetti Squash - A Healthy, Flavorful Main Dish

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spinach Spaghetti Squash dish is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of pasta without the carbs. With fresh spinach, two types of cheese, and aromatic garlic, this recipe combines healthy and satisfying ingredients. Simply roast the squash, sauté the spinach with garlic, and blend everything together for a comforting meal.

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Updated on Sat, 04 Jan 2025 13:35:59 GMT
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Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spinach Spaghetti Squash | myhomemaderecipe.com
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spinach Spaghetti Squash is a wholesome and delicious alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Next, we’ll explore the ingredients needed to create this cheesy and satisfying main course.

Ingredients

  • Spaghetti squash: 1 large squash, halved and seeds removed.
  • Fresh spinach: 2 cups (100 g) of chopped spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (100 g) grated for a savory, cheesy taste.
  • Mozzarella cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded for a melty texture.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced to bring a fragrant aroma to the dish.
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, used for roasting and sautéing.
  • Salt and pepper: Season to taste for flavor balance.
  • Fresh parsley (optional): 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped, for a fresh garnish before serving.

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Step 2:
Brush the inner flesh of the squash halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking tray.
Step 3:
Bake the squash for 40-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. Let the squash cool slightly, then use a fork to scrape out the strands into ‘noodles’.
Step 4:
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 5:
Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.
Step 6:
Gently fold the spaghetti squash strands into the pan, mixing them with the spinach and garlic until well combined.
Step 7:
Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until they melt and coat the squash and spinach evenly.
Step 8:
If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for a burst of freshness and color.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serve the spaghetti squash warm as a main dish or as a side to grilled chicken for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color.
  • Pair it with a light green salad for a balanced and nutritious dinner.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.

Helpful Notes

  • For added protein, mix in cooked chicken or shrimp while combining the ingredients in the pan.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
  • Substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative to make the dish lactose-free.

Tips from well-known chefs

  • Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests roasting the squash with a hint of garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Chef Jamie Oliver recommends using fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an aromatic touch.
  • Chef Ina Garten advises squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the dish before serving to brighten the flavors.

Main Dish, Healthy, Low Carb

A healthy twist on classic pasta, this dish combines spaghetti squash with spinach, garlic, and cheese for a flavorful meal.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 4 Servings (1 dish)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 1 large spaghetti squash.
02 2 cups (100 g) fresh spinach, chopped.
03 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese.
04 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese.
05 4 cloves garlic, minced.
06 2 tbsp olive oil.
07 Salt and pepper, to taste.
08 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish).

Instructions

Step 01

Warm up your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and clear out the seeds.

Step 02

Coat the inner flesh of the squash halves with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then place them cut-side down on a baking tray.

Step 03

Bake for 40-45 minutes, until they become tender. Let them cool a bit before using a fork to rake out the squash into 'noodles'.

Step 04

In a broad pan, warm olive oil on medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook until fragrant, roughly a minute.

Step 05

Add in the chopped spinach and let it cook until it has wilted completely.

Step 06

Gently fold the spaghetti squash strands into the pan, blending them with the spinach and garlic.

Step 07

Mix in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until they melt and integrate smoothly with the other ingredients.

Step 08

Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh touch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
  • Protein: 12 g