Fall may as well be called squash season, as far as we’re concerned. Most popular types of squash, such as butternut squash, acorn squash and delicata squash, can be used in recipes interchangeably with just slight differences in flavor and texture. But there’s one type of squash that is particularly unique: spaghetti squash.
Named for the strands that emerge when properly cooked, spaghetti squash is a mildly sweet squash that’s great as a lower-carb swap for pasta or as an easy weeknight side dish. Cooking this vegetable can be intimidating. But don’t worry! We have two different ways you can cook spaghetti squash and a technique to help you carefully cut through its hard shell, which can be a particular challenge. All you need are some basic cooking methods.
How to Cut Spaghetti Squash
The shell of a spaghetti squash can be incredibly tough, but it’s possible to cut through it with the aid of some very sharp knives. Make sure your cutting board is steady, and use the sharp knife to cut off the very top of your squash — by the stem — and the very bottom of your squash. Then, stand your squash upright and carefully use the knife to cut the squash in half.
If that sounds too intimidating, the microwave can help you cut your spaghetti squash with ease.
First, take a fork and poke holes into the squash as you would when baking a potato. This step allows steam to escape. Then, place the squash in the microwave for three to five minutes. The outer shell should soften, making it easier for you to cut.
