Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of traditional chow mein with the unique texture of spaghetti squash. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests at gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can easily add your choice of protein, such as chicken or beef, or load it up with more vegetables for a heartier meal. Enjoy a healthier twist on a classic favorite that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Spaghetti squash serves as a low-carb substitute for noodles, making it a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite proteins or additional vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just over an hour, this dish comes together efficiently, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and fresh veggies creates an irresistible taste that will satisfy your cravings.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: With the right substitutes, this recipe can easily cater to plant-based diets without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein requires some basic kitchen tools that make the process smoother and faster. Ensure you have everything ready before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sheet pan
• Sharp knife
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Sheet pan: Ideal for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly while allowing any excess moisture to escape.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through the tough spaghetti squash much easier and safer.
• Large skillet: Provides ample space to sauté vegetables and combine them with the spaghetti squash without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for preparing sauces and mixing ingredients before adding them to the skillet.

Ingredients

Spaghetti squash sizes will vary and so will cooking times, so adjust accordingly if you’re cooking with anything smaller or larger than 3 pounds. You can add chicken, shrimp, beef or more veggies to this recipe. It’s totally adaptable!

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 Spaghetti Squash (@3lbs or 1365g)
• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

For the Sauce

• 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 Vegetables

• 1 small onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 red bell pepper (thin sliced)
• 1 cup sliced snow peas (or sugar snap peas)
• 1 large carrot (julienned)

Seasonings and Garnishes

• 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)

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Oil a sheet pan with olive oil to prepare for roasting the spaghetti squash.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and connecting strands using a spoon. Place the cut side down on the prepared sheet pan.

Step 3: Roast the Squash

Bake for 45 minutes, or until the squash flesh becomes tender and separates easily into strands when forked. After baking, gently loosen and remove the spaghetti strands from both halves. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and oyster sauce (or hoisin if you’re opting for vegetarian). Mix well and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; cook until soft. Then add thinly sliced red bell pepper, snow peas, and julienned carrots. Cook until vegetables are tender—about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the reserved spaghetti squash strands along with your prepared sauce into the skillet. Stir everything together until all components are well-coated with sauce. Cook for about another minute until heated through but avoid overcooking; otherwise, the squash may become mushy. Adjust salt and pepper according to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve hot with chili garlic sauce or sriracha on top.

Enjoy your delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, there are numerous serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Pair it with protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or beef for a heartier meal.
• Top with fresh herbs: Garnish with cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables: Enhance the Asian flair with colorful veggies like bok choy or broccoli.
• Accompany with dumplings: Pair with steamed vegetable dumplings for a delightful combination.

In a Salad Bowl

• Mix into salads: Use cold Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein as a base for refreshing salads topped with crunchy vegetables.
• Combine with nuts: Add toasted peanuts or cashews for extra texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

To make the best Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.

• Choose the right spaghetti squash: Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform yellow color.
• Cook until tender: Ensure the squash is fully cooked before scraping; undercooked squash won’t yield the desired strands.
• Don’t overcook the sauce: Add the sauce just before serving to keep flavors bright and fresh.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste and customize soy sauce and vinegar levels to suit your palate.
• Add heat wisely: If you enjoy spice, incorporate chili garlic sauce or sriracha selectively.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Complementing your Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds vibrant color and crunch.
2. Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil and seeds, these beans provide an extra layer of flavor.
3. Crispy Tofu Bites: Pan-fried or baked tofu offers protein and absorbs any extra sauce from your main dish.
4. Miso Soup: A warm, comforting soup that pairs well with Asian-inspired meals.
5. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls make an excellent appetizer before diving into the main course.
6. Quinoa Salad: A chilled salad featuring quinoa, cucumbers, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast to hot dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein experience.

• Using the wrong size squash – Smaller or larger spaghetti squashes may require different cooking times. Always adjust your baking time to ensure perfect doneness.
• Overcooking the squash – If you cook the squash too long, it will become mushy. Aim for tender strands but ensure they maintain a bit of texture.
• Skipping the sauce preparation – Neglecting to mix the sauce in advance can lead to uneven flavor. Prepare your sauce first so it coats the veggies and squash evenly.
• Not seasoning properly – Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can result in blandness. Always add salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
• Using low-quality oils – Using inferior oils can affect flavor. Opt for quality olive oil or other cooking oils for better taste and health benefits.
• Ignoring garnishes – Skipping fresh herbs or spicy sauces can diminish presentation and flavor. Garnish with cilantro or chili garlic sauce for a vibrant finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chow mein in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chow mein and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein?

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is a healthy twist on traditional chow mein, using spaghetti squash as a substitute for noodles.

How do I make Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce, and you have a delicious plant-based version!

Can I add protein to Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein?

Absolutely! You can add chicken, beef, lamb, or even shrimp to boost protein content as desired.

How do I know when my spaghetti squash is done baking?

Your spaghetti squash is done when it’s tender enough that it separates easily into strands with a fork.

What should I serve with Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and colors.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein stands out as a versatile dish that appeals to many tastes. Its adaptability allows you to customize it with various proteins or additional vegetables according to personal preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is a delicious, health-conscious twist on a beloved classic. This dish combines the satisfying texture of spaghetti squash with vibrant vegetables and flavorful sauces, making it a standout option for weeknight dinners or meal prep. It’s incredibly adaptable, allowing you to incorporate your favorite proteins like chicken or beef, or to add extra veggies for a nutrient-packed meal. With its quick preparation time and irresistible taste, Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein will quickly become a family favorite that delights both guests and yourself.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 spaghetti squash (about 3 lbs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup snow peas (or sugar snap peas)
• 1 large carrot (julienned)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Oil a sheet pan.
2. Halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side down on the sheet pan.
3. Roast for about 45 minutes until tender; then fork out the strands and set aside.
4. Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and oyster sauce in a bowl; set aside.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
6. Add bell pepper, snow peas, and carrot; cook until tender.
7. Incorporate the spaghetti squash strands and sauce into the skillet; stir until well combined and heated through.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg