Hi
everyone! Autumn harvest is my favorite time of the year due to the
abundance of squash. Squash are a misunderstood breed, in my
opinion. If you are like me, you were introduced to them as a kid
through those frozen blocks that melted into mush. There wa nothing
tasty nor delightful about them at all. No wonder many people still
don't like these wonderfully nutritious gems.
Here
is a recipe I developed that highlights the delicate and marvelous
taste of spaghetti squash. When cooked, this squash resembles
spaghetti strands, hence its name. I highly recommend steaming it to
keep as many nutrients as possible. Steaming also preserves the
unique texture and taste more than other cooking methods. I find that
to be true, anyways.
I
highly recommend either getting an electric knife or a very sharp
serrated knife to cut this squash up. This suggestion actually
applies to all squash types. To say you will get a good arm workout
when preparing this tasty food category is an understatement.
Herbed
Spaghetti Squash & Veggies
(serves 4-6)
Medium spaghetti squash, cut
into chunks
1 medium carrot, peeled and
sliced
1 broccoli stalk, peeled and
cut
1 small onion, peeled and
sliced
½ cup black beans, cooked
1 garlic clove, chopped
1 T Italian seasoning or
rosemary, thyme, basil mixture
Place 1” of water into the
bottom of a dutch oven on stove top.
Put steamer basket into pan.
Turn heat to medium level.
Place squash and veggies into
steamer.
Cover and cook for about 15
minutes.
(NOTE: Unlike many recipes
found nowadays, it is true that you can enjoy squash in less than 20
minutes when using a high temperature cooking method like steaming.)
Test for doneness by poking
veggies with a knife or fork.
Remove pan from heat.
Let cool until veggie
temperature is easy to handle.
Remove squash and place onto
cutting board.
Find
a 9”x12” baking dish or other appropriate serving dish.
Remove
squash flesh from peel with a spoon or fork.
Place
flesh into serving vessel.
Add
veggies, beans, and spices to the cooked squash.
Gently
mix.
Taste.
Add more spices, if desired.
Serve
warm as a side or main dish.
Store
leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator.
