7 Healthy Spaghetti Squash Recipes
Article posted in: Diet & NutritionSpaghetti squash is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be a valuable addition to any healthy diet. With its low starch content, high vitamin and fiber content, and ability to replace traditional pasta, spaghetti squash is a go-to option for those seeking a lighter and more nutrient-rich alternative.
In terms of appearance, spaghetti squash features a vibrant yellow shell, a seed-filled center, and a stringy yellow flesh that resembles pasta after cooking. Its soft texture and mild taste make it an ideal canvas for various flavors, particularly marinara sauce and garlic-infused dishes.
From a nutritional standpoint, spaghetti squash outshines regular pasta by offering just 42 calories, 10 grams of carbohydrates, minimal fat and 2 grams of fiber per cup. Additionally, it provides a substantial amount of potassium (181 milligrams) and significant levels of vitamins A and C.
The versatility of spaghetti squash allows you to incorporate it into a wide range of recipes. To help you get started, we’ve curated a collection of our favorite healthy spaghetti squash recipes that feature this delightful vegetable. Not only are these recipes perfect for your Nutrisystem plan, but they are also sure to impress your entire family.
As a bonus, using spaghetti squash instead of pasta helps you fulfill one of the recommended four daily servings of vegetables suggested by the dietitians at Nutrisystem.
Discover the wonders of spaghetti squash and elevate your meals with this nutritious and delicious vegetable. Explore our spaghetti squash recipes below and embrace a healthier lifestyle today!
1. Low-Carb Baked Feta Pasta
Looking for a healthy twist on the trendy baked feta pasta? Try our version made with spaghetti squash! Packed with creamy feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil, it’s a satisfying and low-carb alternative to traditional baked pasta dinners. Say goodbye to excess calories and fats while still enjoying the flavors you love.
Get the Spaghetti Squash Baked Feta Pasta recipe.
2. Air Fryer Italian Spaghetti Squash
In this easy dish, the hard squash skin becomes the vessel for your whole meal. You simply slice the squash in half, scrape out the seeds, and cook the squash in an air fryer. When it’s done, you mix the strands of “spaghetti” with ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, marinara sauce and spinach. Put the blend back inside the squash rind and heat until it all turns tender and melty.
Get the Air Fryer Italian Spaghetti Squash recipe.
3. Sweet and Savory Spaghetti Squash Bowl
Your vegetable pasta serves as the foundation for a flavorful dinner. Make this sweet and savory bowl by topping the squash strands with sweet potato cubes and creamy goat cheese. Season it all with honey, cinnamon and sage. This meal is perfect for vegetarians or anyone who wants a satisfying meatless meal.
Get the Sweet and Savory Spaghetti Squash Bowl recipe.
4. Slow Cooker Turkey Bolognese with Spaghetti Squash Pasta
Bolognese is the favorite sauce of many spaghetti lovers, because it’s thick, rich, meaty and so hearty. We make our Bolognese with lean turkey, zucchini and peas for lots of nutrition without compromising on flavor. Pour this sauce on a plate of spaghetti squash pasta for a meal that’s worthy of your favorite Italian bistro.
Get the Slow Cooker Turkey Bolognese and Spaghetti Squash Pasta recipe.
5. Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs
You don’t have to pass on a filling spaghetti and meatball dinner just because you’re losing weight with Nutrisystem. Start with the popular Nutrisystem dinner, Meatballs in Marinara Sauce, and layer them over a base of spaghetti squash pasta. We add spinach for another daily serving of vegetables and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra savory flavor.
Get the Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs recipe.
6. Chicken “Noodle” Soup
How could classic chicken noodle soup be any better? We substitute spaghetti squash for standard egg noodles, so you get all the slurping pleasure you expect but fewer carbs and more healthy nutrients. This soup features chunks of chicken breast and rich chicken broth, along with carrots and thyme for that authentic taste you grew up with.
Get the Spaghetti Squash Chicken Noodle Soup recipe.
7. Southwest Spaghetti Squash Bowl
Spaghetti squash is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be utilized in a wide range of cuisines. To prepare a delicious Southwestern-inspired dish, simply combine cooked squash pasta with a flavorful blend of shredded chicken breast, tomatoes, onions, black beans, olives, bell peppers, and real cheese. Add a dash of lime juice and cilantro for the perfect finishing touch. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests.