There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm plate of Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce, especially during the fall season. This dish, with its tender strands of spaghetti squash and rich, flavor-packed marinara, brings out the essence of family gatherings and the joy of being together. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines creativity in the kitchen with the love of sharing food around the table. Perfect for a cozy evening with loved ones, this recipe is easy to make and a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Drizzle the insides of the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, warm up the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the squash is cooked, let it cool slightly, then use a fork to scrape out the strands of squash into a bowl. They should resemble spaghetti noodles.
- Divide the spaghetti squash among four plates. Top each serving with a generous amount of marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
For a variation, try adding some sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and texture. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the squash halves for about 10 minutes until tender. For a vegan option, omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Storage Instructions
Leftover spaghetti squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The marinara sauce can also be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad and a side of garlic bread. For drinks, consider a glass of smooth red wine or a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon.
We hope this Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce brings warmth and joy to your family table. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback, so please leave a comment on our website, www.zynahz.com. For more recipes and updates, subscribe to our newsletter and follow Zynahz on social media. Happy cooking!
