Spaghetti squash is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that provides a range of health benefits. It is known for its unique stringy texture, which resembles spaghetti when cooked. Here are some of the health benefits of spaghetti squash:
- Low in Calories and Carbohydrates:
- Spaghetti squash is a low-calorie and low-carbohydrate alternative to traditional pasta, making it a suitable option for those looking to manage their calorie or carbohydrate intake.
- Rich in Nutrients:
- Spaghetti squash is a good source of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and B vitamins. It also provides minerals such as potassium and manganese.
- Dietary Fiber:
- This squash is high in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, helps maintain bowel regularity, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
- Antioxidant Content:
- Spaghetti squash contains antioxidants, including beta-carotene and other carotenoids, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Weight Management:
- Due to its low-calorie content and high fiber content, spaghetti squash can be a satisfying and nutritious addition to a weight management or weight loss plan.
- Blood Sugar Regulation:
- The fiber in spaghetti squash may help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugars in the digestive tract.
- Heart Health:
- The potassium content in spaghetti squash is beneficial for heart health, as it helps regulate blood pressure and supports proper cardiovascular function.
- Promotes Healthy Skin:
- The vitamins A and C in spaghetti squash contribute to skin health. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining skin integrity, while vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis.
- Supports Immune Function:
- The vitamins and antioxidants in spaghetti squash contribute to a healthy immune system by supporting the function of immune cells and protecting against infections.
- Versatile and Low in Fat:
- Spaghetti squash is a versatile vegetable that can be used as a lower-calorie and lower-carbohydrate substitute for pasta in various dishes. It is also naturally low in fat.
To enjoy the health benefits of spaghetti squash, you can prepare it by roasting, baking, or microwaving, and then using a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands. Incorporate it into salads, stir-fries, or pasta dishes as a nutritious alternative to traditional noodles. As with any dietary changes, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions.
SPAGHETTI SQUASH RECIPE
INGREDIENTS
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1boxes Angel Hair pasta (GF)
- 4 zucchini spiraled
- 1 jar organic tomato basil pasta sauce (no added sugar)
- 1 can diced roasted tomato basil
- 1 c fresh basil chopped
- Italian seasoning
- Celtic sea salt
- 5-6 cloves grated garlic
- Feta cheese in brine (sheep)
PREPARATION STEPS
- bake the squash in a roasting pan with 3/4 c of water in the bottom, whole for 90 min.
- leave covered while cooling
- spiral zucchini or purchase pre-spiraled, season with Italian seasoning, and set aside.
- cook angel hair pasta with seasonings and a bit of grated garlic
- drain, retain spices, and set aside covered to prevent drying out
- cool squash and remove seeds, fork out pulp, and season with Italian seasoning, garlic, and salt
- mix pulp with pasta evenly then add spiraled zucchini and fresh basil.
- add pasta sauce & canned diced tomatoes
- serve and top with feta cheese made from sheep milk in brine
Spaghetti Squash and Angel Hair Pasta
