Easy Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Recipe

Delve into the delightful world of Spaghetti Squash with Marinara, a dish that promises to be a wholesome treat for your taste buds while offering a satisfying alternative to traditional pasta. This easy Spaghetti Squash with marinara recipe not only brings a comforting familiarity to your dinner table but also allows you to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Originating from Central America, spaghetti squash gained popularity in the United States for its versatility and low-carb qualities, making it a favorite among those following gluten-free and vegan diets. With its unique texture, reminiscent of spaghetti, and a savory marinara sauce freshly made from scratch, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Whether you’re seeking a hearty weeknight meal or a dish that can impress your guests, this homemade spaghetti squash with marinara from scratch brings the best of both worlds. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients that fill you up without weighing you down. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious meal in no time!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Squash:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash (approximately 3 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions:

• For a lower-fat version, skip the olive oil for steaming the squash and opt for a splash of vegetable broth.
• Substitute crushed tomatoes with diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for a different texture.
• Use onion powder if you don’t have fresh onions on hand.

Equipment List

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Cooking pot (for simmering the sauce)
• Fork (for shredding the squash)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help to caramelize the squash, bringing out its natural sweetness.
2. Prepare the Squash: Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. This step can be a bit tricky, so take your time and ensure you’re using a stable cutting board.
3. Season the Squash: Drizzle the inside of each half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Rub the oil mixture over the flesh to ensure even coverage; this adds flavor and helps in the roasting process.
4. Bake the Squash: Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the flesh is tender and you can easily pierce it with a fork. While it’s baking, the kitchen will fill with an enticing aroma.
5. Make the Marinara Sauce: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sautéing for 3-4 minutes or until translucent. The golden edges of the onion will develop a sweet flavor.
6. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
7. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the sautéed onions and garlic. Incorporate the dried oregano and basil, adding a pinch of sugar if desired, adjustable to your taste. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The sauce should thicken and develop a rich color.
8. Shred the Squash: Once the spaghetti squash is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Using a fork, gently scrape the flesh to create spaghetti-like strands. This process is delightful as the squash transforms right before your eyes! Set aside.
9. Combine and Serve: Toss the shredded spaghetti squash lightly with the marinara sauce, ensuring that the strands are well-coated. Serve the dish warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.

Special Notes

• Storing: Leftover spaghetti squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to prep ahead, cook the squash and sauce separately for maximum freshness.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can add a splash of water for moisture as it reheats.
• Troubleshooting Sauce Thickness: If the marinara is too thick, simply add a tablespoon or two of vegetable stock or water until you reach the desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegan Option: This recipe is already vegan-friendly, but you can add plant-based protein by incorporating lentils or chickpeas into the marinara sauce.
• Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free due to its primary ingredient, spaghetti squash!
• Extra Flavor: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. If you enjoy mushrooms, finely chopped mushrooms sautéed with the onions will add an earthy depth of flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 200 calories
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 6g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare your Spaghetti Squash with Marinara, the vibrant orange strands of the squash will contrast beautifully with the glossy red of the marinara sauce. The freshly chopped basil should add a touch of green, making the dish pop visually. Before serving, consider snapping a picture of the finished plate, capturing the steam rising, the textures of the squash, and the inviting aroma wafting through the air. For added engagement, a short video of shredding the squash can emphasize the impressive transformation from vegetable to a pasta-like texture.

Conclusion

This easy Spaghetti Squash with Marinara has all the elements of a comforting meal—with the additional benefits of health-conscious ingredients. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious and nourishing entree? Don’t forget to tag your culinary adventures with MyDeliciousDish! Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe or have any variations of your own to share. Your feedback fuels our culinary journey!