Looking for a healthy and delicious meal option? Look no further than a serving of Spaghetti Squash Marinara! With only 257 calories, this dish is filling, flavorful, and packed with nutrition.

Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that is similar in texture to spaghetti noodles when cooked. It is a low-carb and low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta and a great way to add more veggies to your diet. Marinara sauce is a tomato-based sauce that is typically seasoned with garlic and herbs, making it a flavorful and nutritious topping for spaghetti squash.

In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know to create a delicious and healthy serving of Spaghetti Squash Marinara at home.

What is spaghetti squash?

Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that is native to North and Central America. It gets its name from the fact that, when cooked, the flesh of the squash can be scraped into long, thin strands that resemble spaghetti noodles. Spaghetti squash is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. It is also low in calories, with only 42 calories per cup of cooked squash. To cook spaghetti squash, you'll need to cut it in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. You can then roast it in the oven or cook it in the microwave until the flesh is tender. Once cooked, you can use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.

How to cook spaghetti squash?

To cook spaghetti squash, start by washing the exterior of the squash and cutting it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to remove the seeds and place the squash halves cut-side-down in a baking dish. Roast the squash in the oven at 400°F for 30-45 minutes or until the flesh is tender. Alternatively, you can cook the squash in the microwave by placing it cut-side-down in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water and microwaving it on high for 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, you can use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.

What is marinara sauce?

Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce that is typically seasoned with garlic and herbs such as basil and oregano. It is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to pizza. The origins of marinara sauce are disputed, with some claiming it was invented in Naples while others believe it was created in the United States by Italian immigrants.

How to make marinara sauce?

To make marinara sauce, start by sautéing garlic in olive oil over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add canned crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, or fresh diced tomatoes to the pan along with herbs such as basil and oregano. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can also customize the sauce by adding other ingredients such as onions, mushrooms, or red pepper flakes.

What are the ingredients in Spaghetti Squash Marinara?

To make a serving of Spaghetti Squash Marinara, you'll need one small spaghetti squash, marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You can also add other ingredients to customize the dish, such as lean ground turkey, diced veggies, or fresh herbs.

How many calories does it contain?

A serving of Spaghetti Squash Marinara contains approximately 257 calories. This includes one small spaghetti squash, 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

What are the nutritional benefits of Spaghetti Squash Marinara?

Spaghetti Squash Marinara is a nutritious and healthy meal option. Spaghetti squash is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, while marinara sauce is low in calories and provides vitamin A, vitamin C, and lycopene. Adding lean protein such as ground turkey or chicken to the dish can increase its protein content and make it even more filling.

Can you add protein to it?

Yes, you can easily add protein to your serving of Spaghetti Squash Marinara by including lean ground turkey or chicken. Simply brown the meat in a pan with some olive oil and seasoning, then mix it in with the cooked spaghetti squash and marinara sauce.

How to store leftovers?

To store leftover Spaghetti Squash Marinara, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

What are some variations to try?

There are endless variations you can try to make your serving of Spaghetti Squash Marinara even more delicious and nutritious. Some ideas include adding roasted veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms, using a different type of sauce such as pesto or Alfredo, or topping the dish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese.