Go Back
A cooked spaghetti squash half on a plate, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and fresh parsley, ready to eat.
Layla

Roasted Garlic Herb Spaghetti Squash

This easy method for roasting spaghetti squash results in tender, flavorful strands perfect as a healthy side dish or a light, low-carb meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish, Vegetarian
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 239

Ingredients
  

For the Roasted Spaghetti Squash
  • 1 large spaghetti squash about 3 lbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp sea salt plus more to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
For Finishing
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Large chef's knife
  • Large spoon
  • Baking Sheet
  • Large Bowl
  • Fork
  • Small skillet (optional)

Method
 

Prep the Squash
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise. A sharp, sturdy chef's knife works best. Use a large spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from both halves. Discard the seeds and pulp.
  2. Brush the cut sides of the squash halves with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is easily pierced with a fork and the flesh is tender.
  3. Carefully remove the squash from the oven. Let it cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes, just until it's cool enough to handle. Using a fork, gently scrape the flesh from the inside of each squash half into a large bowl. It will naturally separate into spaghetti-like strands.
Flavor the Squash
  1. While the squash cools, melt the unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat.
  2. Pour the melted garlic butter over the spaghetti squash strands in the large bowl. Add the chopped fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all the strands are coated. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
  3. Serve the garlic herb spaghetti squash warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. It makes a fantastic healthy side dish or a light meal on its own.

Notes

To make cutting easier, you can microwave the whole squash for 3-5 minutes before halving. Don't overcook the squash! If it's too soft, the strands will be mushy instead of firm and noodle-like. Feel free to customize this basic recipe with your favorite additions like marinara sauce, pesto, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.