Garlic Parmesan Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Mozzarella

Spaghetti squash is an incredible vegetable that serves as a versatile, low-carb alternative to pasta. It’s mild in flavor and easy to work with, making it the perfect base for countless dishes. One of the best ways to prepare spaghetti squash is by roasting it with garlic, Parmesan, spinach, and mozzarella cheese. This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Mozzarella is a comforting yet healthy dish that combines the richness of cheese with the freshness of spinach, all wrapped up in the tender strands of spaghetti squash. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carb intake or simply enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make this dish, from the ingredients and directions to helpful tips, the health benefits, FAQs, and much more. By the end, you’ll be ready to make a mouthwatering, cheesy, and nutritious meal that’s as satisfying as it is healthy.

Ingredients

This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Mozzarella requires only a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. The combination of flavors is rich, savory, and balanced, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for anyone.

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Choose the Best Ingredients

When it comes to selecting the best spaghetti squash, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Spaghetti Squash: Look for a squash that is firm, free from cracks, and has a uniform yellow color. The heavier it feels for its size, the better.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil works best for its flavor, as it brings a fresh, rich taste to the dish.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish an aromatic depth of flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with garlic powder, but fresh is always better for that strong, fragrant kick.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant green color and a mild, earthy taste that complements the cheesy elements of the dish. Frozen spinach can also be used if fresh isn’t available, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan: Fresh mozzarella is the best option as it melts beautifully and has a creamier texture. Grated Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that contrasts perfectly with the mozzarella’s richness.

Directions

Making Garlic Parmesan Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Mozzarella is a simple process that takes just under an hour to prepare. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure you make this dish just right.

Step 1: Roast the Squash

The first step to making this delicious dish is roasting the spaghetti squash. Roasting helps develop the natural sweetness of the squash and makes it easier to scrape out the stringy interior that resembles pasta.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Be careful as the squash can be tough to cut.
3. Scoop out the seeds from the middle of each half using a spoon. You can discard them or save them for roasting separately, but they are not necessary for this recipe.
4. Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with olive oil. Rub the oil evenly over the flesh and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can easily be scraped with a fork. The edges of the squash should be golden brown when done.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

While the squash is roasting, take this time to sauté the garlic and spinach. This step adds a burst of flavor and makes sure the spinach is perfectly wilted, adding a soft texture to the final dish.

1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the pan and stir. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the spinach has fully wilted down. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Once the spinach has cooked down, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Scrape the Squash

After the squash has roasted and cooled slightly, it’s time to scrape out the “noodles.” This is where the magic happens, as the spaghetti squash naturally separates into thin strands that resemble pasta.

1. Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash from the skin.
2. As you scrape, the squash will naturally separate into noodle-like strands. Transfer these strands to a large bowl.

Step 4: Combine the Squash with Garlic and Spinach

Now that the squash is scraped into strands, it’s time to combine everything together to create a rich, flavorful dish.

1. Add the sautéed garlic and spinach mixture into the bowl with the spaghetti squash strands.
2. Stir the mixture well to combine, ensuring the garlic and spinach are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

The final step is to add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the warm squash and spinach mixture, creating a rich and creamy texture.

1. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Continue mixing until the cheese is melted through and everything is well combined.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the dish is fully combined, it’s ready to be served. Garnish with a little extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, savory, and nutritious dish!

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

Here’s a breakdown of the time required to make this dish:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes (for roasting squash)
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories per Serving

This dish is not only delicious but also relatively light in calories, making it a great choice for those watching their intake while still enjoying a satisfying meal.

Each serving of Garlic Parmesan Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Mozzarella contains approximately 210 kcal. This makes it a great low-calorie meal that’s packed with nutrients, perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Tips for Success

1. Cut the Squash Evenly

It’s important to cut the spaghetti squash evenly so that it roasts uniformly. A sharp knife is essential for cutting through the tough exterior of the squash.

2. Don’t Overcook the Garlic

Garlic can burn quickly, so make sure to sauté it over medium heat and monitor it carefully. If garlic burns, it can become bitter and spoil the flavor of the dish.

3. Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh garlic, spinach, and cheese ensures the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients create a more vibrant and aromatic dish compared to pre-packaged options.

4. Try Different Cheeses

While mozzarella and Parmesan are perfect for this dish, feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, ricotta, or even a bit of cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor.

5. Serve with a Side Salad

If you’re looking to turn this dish into a full meal, serve it with a side of leafy greens or a light salad. The fresh greens complement the richness of the cheese and add a refreshing crunch.

Health Benefits of Garlic Parmesan Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Mozzarella

Low-Carb, Low-Calorie Option

Spaghetti squash serves as an excellent low-carb substitute for pasta, making this dish a great choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s also low in calories, allowing you to indulge in a flavorful meal without consuming excessive calories.

High in Fiber

Spaghetti squash and spinach are both rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. Fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent overeating.

Packed with Vitamins and Minerals

This dish is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. Spinach is a great source of iron, vitamin K, and folate, while spaghetti squash provides a good amount of vitamin A, C, and potassium.

Heart-Healthy

Olive oil is a staple in heart-healthy diets, and using it in this recipe provides a dose of healthy fats. The unsaturated fats in olive oil can help reduce bad cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti squash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the squash and cheese mixture on the stovetop or in the oven.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Frozen spinach works in this recipe, but you’ll need to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the dish. Fresh spinach will give you the best flavor and texture, but frozen spinach is a good substitute if necessary.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done roasting?

The squash is done when the flesh is fork-tender and easily separates into strands. The skin should also look slightly golden and wrinkled. Make sure to check by scraping the flesh with a fork to ensure the strands come apart easily.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add protein by incorporating cooked chicken, ground turkey, or shrimp to the mixture. This will turn the dish into a heartier meal, adding both flavor and nutritional value.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Mozzarella is a wonderfully satisfying dish that combines the best of savory flavors and healthy ingredients. With its low-carb and nutritious profile, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a guilt-free meal that still feels indulgent. The combination of tender spaghetti squash, rich mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and the fresh taste of spinach makes this dish a winner every time.

Whether you’re making it as a light dinner or a side dish for a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, grab a spaghetti squash, fire up the oven, and enjoy this flavorful, comforting dish with a healthy twist!