Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, then you’ve come to the right place! This Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein has become a favorite in my kitchen. It’s not just delicious but also a wonderful way to sneak some veggies into your meals. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is adaptable, making it easy to personalize based on what you have at home. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this chow mein will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Veggie-Packed Goodness: It’s loaded with fresh vegetables, providing a burst of color and nutrition in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun texture of spaghetti squash, and they won’t even notice they’re eating their greens!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or more veggies. This recipe is as flexible as your cravings!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Meal prep just got easier! Prepare the components ahead of time and toss them together when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Each one plays a key role in creating that scrumptious taste we all crave.

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 Spaghetti Squash (@3lbs or 1365g)

For the Sauce

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or low sodium soy sauce (use Tamari for gluten free)
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar (or distilled white vinegar)
• 1 Tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin for vegetarian)

For the Chow Mein

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or grape seed oil)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup sliced snow peas (or sugar snap peas)
• 1 large carrot (julienned)
• Kosher salt (or sea salt, to taste)
• Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• Chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or hot sauce (optional)

Variations

This Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is so flexible! You can easily switch up ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.
• Add more veggies: Toss in broccoli florets or zucchini noodles for even more nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some chili flakes or a spicier sauce.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of coconut cream for a rich twist!

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This step ensures that your spaghetti squash cooks evenly and becomes tender. While the oven is warming up, oil a sheet pan with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and connecting strands—don’t worry; it’s easier than it sounds! Place the cut side down on your prepared sheet pan. Baking it this way helps keep moisture locked in.

Step 3: Bake Until Tender

Bake the squash for about 45 minutes until its flesh becomes tender and separates easily into strands when you scrape with a fork. This process transforms our star ingredient into delightful spaghetti strands!

Step 4: Make Your Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and oyster sauce (or hoisin). Mixing these ingredients creates a savory sauce that will coat everything perfectly. Set this aside while we move on to the next steps.

Step 5: Sauté Your Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; cook until soft and fragrant—this step brings out their natural sweetness! Next, toss in sliced red bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots. Sauté until tender but still crisp; this should take about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to add those beautiful spaghetti squash strands back into the skillet along with your sauce. Stir everything together gently until each strand is well-coated with that delicious mixture. Cook for another minute just to heat everything through—be careful not to overcook; we want those strands to remain al dente!

And there you have it—a warm bowl of Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein ready for serving! Garnish with fresh cilantro and offer some hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a kick. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Making the perfect Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is all about the details! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your cooking experience.

• Choose the right squash: Opt for a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin. This ensures you get the best texture and flavor in your dish.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Allow the spaghetti squash to bake until it’s fork-tender. Rushing this step can lead to a mushy texture, which detracts from the chow mein experience.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Broccoli, bok choy, or even mushrooms can add extra flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste as you go! This allows you to adjust the soy sauce, vinegar, or spices to suit your palate perfectly.
• Add protein if desired: For those wanting more substance, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. This not only enhances flavor but also makes it a heartier meal.

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Presenting your Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to help you serve this delicious dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nice crunch and nutty aroma, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of basil or mint can bring freshness and vibrancy, making your dish look enticing and flavorful.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and is easy to prepare alongside your chow mein.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm flavors of the chow mein.
• Edamame: These steamed soybeans are not only delicious but also packed with protein. They make for a satisfying side that pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes.
• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting starter that complements the flavors of your chow mein perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delightful Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is not just a delicious dish; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your life a little easier during busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chow mein to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the spaghetti squash chow mein cool down before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• For best quality, consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until warm.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones about making Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein.

Can I add protein to Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef for added protein. Just ensure they are pre-cooked before adding them to the skillet with the vegetables.

How do I make my Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein spicy?

For a spicier kick, add chili garlic sauce or sriracha according to your taste preference. You can adjust the heat level based on how much you love spice!

What should I serve with Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or as part of a more extensive meal.

Can I use other vegetables in my Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein?

Definitely! This recipe is quite flexible. You can swap out snow peas and carrots for any of your favorite stir-fry veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or bok choy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein as delightful as I do! Not only is it comforting and satisfying, but it also allows you to enjoy a healthier twist on a classic dish. Enjoy cooking and don’t forget to share how yours turned out! Happy cooking!