Spicy Moroccan-Inspired Spaghetti Squash
This Spicy Moroccan-Inspired Spaghetti Squash combines the unique texture of spaghetti squash with aromatic spices that transport your taste buds right to North Africa. The buttery richness of the squash is beautifully enhanced by a blend of cumin, coriander, and a hint of cayenne, providing a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is not only wholesome and comforting but also makes for a stunning centerpiece at any dinner table. The addition of fresh cilantro adds brightness and a refreshing touch. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course for those seeking a culinary adventure without the grains!
4
Servings
112.5
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
spaghetti squash
4 lbs (whole)
unsalted butter
4 tablespoons (cut into pieces)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (none)
ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon (none)
cayenne
1/8 teaspoon (none)
salt
3/4 teaspoon (none)
fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your microwave to a standard setting or your oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking.
2
Using a small, sharp knife, pierce the spaghetti squash all over (about an inch deep) to prevent it from bursting during cooking.
3
If using a microwave, place the squash in the microwave and cook on high power for 6 to 7 minutes. Turn the squash over and continue microwaving until it feels slightly soft when pressed, which should take another 8 to 10 minutes. If baking, place the squash on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.25 hours until tender.
4
Once cooked, allow the squash to cool for about 5 minutes. Be cautious as steam will escape when cutting.
5
Carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and discard or compost them.
6
Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the squash to loosen the strands into a bowl.
7
In a small heavy saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 1 minute. Be vigilant not to let it burn.
8
Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne, and salt, mixing well. Remove the saucepan from heat.
9
Pour the spiced butter over the spaghetti squash strands and add the fresh, chopped cilantro. Toss gently to combine until the squash is well coated in the butter and spices.
10
Serve the spiced spaghetti squash immediately, garnishing with additional cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
10g
Carbs
1.5g
Protein
3.75g
Fiber
1.25g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Moroccan-Inspired Spaghetti Squash?
It is a flavorful dish that combines the unique texture of spaghetti squash with North African spices like cumin, coriander, and cayenne.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses squash, butter, and spices.
Is the dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great alternative to grain-based pasta.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 112.5 calories per serving.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What are the main spices used in this recipe?
The dish is flavored with ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and fresh garlic.
How do I prepare the squash for cooking?
You should pierce the spaghetti squash all over with a small sharp knife, about an inch deep, to prevent it from bursting.
Can I cook the squash in the microwave?
Yes, microwave on high for 6 to 7 minutes, turn it over, and cook for another 8 to 10 minutes until soft.
How do I bake the squash in the oven?
Place the squash on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 to 1.25 hours.
What should I do after the squash is cooked?
Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes, then carefully cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
How do I get the 'spaghetti' texture?
Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the cooked squash to loosen the strands into a bowl.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is 7.5g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
This dish contains 10g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this recipe have a lot of fiber?
Each serving provides 3.75g of fiber.
How much protein is in the recipe?
The recipe contains 1.5g of protein per serving.
How much garlic do I need?
You will need 2 minced garlic cloves for this recipe.
How do I prepare the garlic butter sauce?
Melt butter, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until golden, then stir in cumin, coriander, cayenne, and salt.
What kind of butter should I use?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Is the dish very spicy?
It has a hint of heat from 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, which provides a balanced spice level.
How much fresh cilantro is used?
You use 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro to toss with the squash.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as a side dish or as a light main course.
What is the recommended weight for the squash?
The recipe is based on a 4 lb spaghetti squash.
How much sugar is in a serving?
There is approximately 1.25g of sugar per serving.
What is the salt requirement for this recipe?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
Should the butter be melted over high heat?
No, it should be melted over medium-high heat to prevent the garlic from burning.
Do I need to peel the squash?
No, you cook it whole (after piercing) and then scrape the flesh out of the skin.
How should I serve this dish?
Serve it immediately after tossing with the spiced butter and cilantro, with extra garnish if desired.
Can I compost the seeds?
Yes, the recipe suggests you can discard or compost the seeds after scooping them out.
How long do I cook the garlic?
Cook the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it is golden and fragrant.
What makes this dish 'Moroccan-inspired'?
The use of aromatic spices common in North African cuisine, such as cumin and coriander, gives it its Moroccan inspiration.