Spaghetti Squash Salad
Description
This Spaghetti Squash Salad offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, perfect for those seeking a lighter, vegetable-forward meal. The tender, noodle-like strands of spaghetti squash are perfectly complemented by earthy sliced mushrooms and aromatic minced garlic, all brought together with a touch of olive oil and butter. Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright, herbaceous finish that elevates the simple ingredients. Its a satisfying main course that feels comforting yet healthy, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or as a side dish for larger gatherings. The dish is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences. With its mild sweetness and savory depth, this recipe is easy to prepare using pantry staples, ensuring you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
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Brush the cut sides of the squash with a little olive oil and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
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Let the squash cool slightly, then use a fork to scrape out the flesh, creating spaghetti-like strands. Set aside.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and saut for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and liquid has evaporated.
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Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Add the spaghetti squash strands to the skillet with the mushrooms. Toss to combine and cook for 3-5 minutes to heat through.
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Stir in the margarine (or butter) and remaining olive oil, allowing the butter to melt and coat the squash.
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Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve immediately, topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 776.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 36.2g56%
- Saturated Fat 9.6g48%
- Cholesterol 13.2mg5%
- Sodium 430.3mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 88.6g30%
- Dietary Fiber 6.7g27%
- Sugars 3.0g
- Protein 24.3g49%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Substitutions: You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor. For a vegan version, omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
Variations: Add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
Tip: To make cutting the squash easier, microwave it whole for 5 minutes before slicing to soften the skin slightly.
Safety: Be careful when cutting the squash as it can be hard and slippery. Use a sharp knife and a stable cutting board.