If you’ve been searching for a healthy, low-carb alternative to pasta that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, spaghetti squash is your new best friend. When roasted, its golden strands naturally resemble spaghetti, making it a versatile base for all sorts of sauces and toppings. Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite ways to enjoy it: Spaghetti Squash with Garlic Butter.
This dish is buttery, garlicky, and brightened up with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. It’s simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve as a side at a dinner party. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a crowd-pleaser for nearly everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Healthy but satisfying: Lower in carbs than pasta but still comforting.
- Quick and simple: Only a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Versatile: Perfect as a light main course or paired with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Directions
- Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then place cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 35–40 minutes until tender.
- Shred into Strands: Allow the squash to cool slightly, then scrape the inside with a fork to reveal spaghetti-like strands.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toss and Flavor: Add the squash strands to the skillet, tossing them with the garlic butter. Stir in Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Recipe at a Glance
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Servings: 4
Spaghetti Squash with Garlic Butter is the perfect balance of light and comforting. It’s a fantastic way to eat more veggies without feeling like you’re missing out on pasta night. Pair it with a crisp salad for a complete vegetarian meal, or use it as a flavorful side dish alongside your favorite protein.
