Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Step 1

Wash the exterior of the squash and then towel dry it. Using a very sharp knife or cleaver, slowly cut into your squash. You want to cut it in half length-wise.

Step 2

If the squash is very hard to cut, you can soften it slightly in the microwave. I recommend making a few small slits into the squash with your knife for ventilation. You will microwave approximately 5 minutes, but if it's your first time doing this method, I recommend stopping at 1-2 minute intervals to check on the progress of your squash. You can also cut a few more slits for ventilation between these intervals as it should get easier.

Step 3

After 5 minutes, the squash will still be fairly hard, but you should be able to slice through it with some strength.

Step 4

Carefully keep working with your knife until you are able to cut all the way through and around your spaghetti squash except at the stem, at which point you will need to pry open the squash.

Step 5

Scrape seeds clean off of squash. You can toss or save them for roasting. Save half of the squash for another use.

Step 6

For the microwave method of cooking, place squash with the cut-open side facing down, into a microwave dish filled with 1 inch of water. Place into microwave and cook at 5 minute intervals. Check after 5 minutes to see if squash is cooked. It should take between 10-15 minutes total depending on the size of your squash.

Step 7

Once squash is cool enough to touch, use a fork to scrape the squash off of its shell. It will naturally fall into thin strands and you should be able to scrape all the way down to the skin of the shell.

Step 8

For oven method, preheat oven to 375°F. Place squash on baking sheet (the cut-open side facing up) and cook for 30-40 minutes, until squash is tender and cooked.

Step 9

Once squash is cool enough to touch, use a fork to scrape the squash off of its shell. It will naturally fall into thin strands and you should be able to scrape all the way down to the skin of the shell.

Step 10

In a small saucepan, add butter, garlic and broth. Cook until butter is melted and the aroma of the garlic has fully seeped into the mixture. Pour over spaghetti squash strands.

Step 11

Add in cheese. Toss until sauce and cheese is evenly mixed. If desired, sprinkle a little more cheese on top and parsley. Serve warm.