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🍝 Spaghetti squash with marinara sauce and a side salad 🥗

🍝 Spaghetti squash with marinara sauce and a side salad 🥗

🥗 30 Mins | 🍽️Weight-Friendly | 🍚Veg-Friendly

Hello Quick Meals
September 08, 2023

Dinner time: 🍝 Spaghetti squash with marinara sauce and a side salad 🥗

This quick and easy meal provides a satisfying and healthy option for a busy weeknight dinner. Enjoy!

Reasons to enjoy Spaghetti squash with marinara sauce and a side salad:

Nutrient-Rich: 🌟 Packed with vitamins (C, A) and potassium, it boosts overall well-being.

Weight-Friendly: ⚖️ Helps manage weight with fewer calories and more fiber for satiety.

Versatile: 🌶️ Pairs well with sauces, including marinara, for diverse flavors.

Natural Feel: 🍽️ Resembles traditional pasta texture minus excess carbs.

Diet-Friendly: 🌾 Gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.

Quick Prep: 🕒 Speedy cooking for busy nights.

Customizable: 🌿 Adjust the sauce to your taste with herbs and veggies.

Family Fave: 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Loved by all ages, perfect for family meals.

Balanced: 🥗 A side salad creates a well-rounded meal.

Guilt-Free: 👍 Enjoy classic Italian flavors without the guilt.

Veg-Friendly: 🌱 Suitable for vegans and vegetarians; sauce can be adapted.

INGREDIENTS

For Spaghetti Squash:

1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
Olive oil

Salt and pepper
1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For Side Salad:

3 cups mixed greens (e.g., lettuce, spinach, arugula)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Balsamic vinaigrette dressing (store-bought or homemade)

INSTRUCTIONS

Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

STEP 1: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.

STEP 2: Scoop out the seeds and pulp from the center.

STEP 3: Brush the inside of each squash half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

STEP 4: Place the squash halves, cut-side down, on a microwave-safe dish.

STEP 5: Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes or until the squash flesh is tender and easily shreds into "spaghetti" strands with a fork.

While the Squash Cooks

In a medium saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through. You can add herbs or spices like basil or red pepper flakes for extra flavor if you like.

Prepare the Side Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion.

Assemble the Dish

Once the spaghetti squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh into "spaghetti" strands.

Plate the spaghetti squash on individual plates or a serving platter.

Top the spaghetti squash with the warm marinara sauce.

Serve

Serve the spaghetti squash and marinara sauce alongside the side salad.

Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the salad just before serving.

Bon Appétit!