Ingredients and Weight:
1 large spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds)
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ground lean meat (such as chicken or turkey)
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1/2 cup chopped onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves face down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
- While the squash is baking, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground meat and cook until no longer red.
- Add the mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a fork to shred the squash into spaghetti-like noodles.
- Toss the shredded squash noodles with the meat and vegetable mixture.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and fresh parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on estimated values)
Calories: Approx. 400 per serving (assuming 8 equal servings)
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 25g
Fiber: 5g
(Actual nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Spaghetti Squash Noodles offer a low-carb, high-fiber alternative to traditional pasta dishes.
- The dish combines the texture of spaghetti-like squash noodles with a flavorful meat and vegetable sauce.
- It is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for meat lovers who are looking for a healthier pasta option.
User Comments:
- "This was an interesting and delicious twist on traditional spaghetti! The squash noodles were a great low-carb alternative." - John Doe
- "I loved the combination of flavors in this dish. The meat and vegetable sauce was so good paired with the squash noodles." - Jane Smith
- "This dish was easy to make and was a hit with my family. I will definitely make it again." - Bob Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to bake the spaghetti squash until it is tender to ensure the noodles are easy to shred.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if desired.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the meat and increase the vegetables for a hearty and vegetarian-friendly dish.
