Healthy Tip - Spaghetti Squash

November is here, and it has arrived with a bang!  Freezing temperatures around the US (even in the normally mild Southeast) have many of us craving warm, comforting foods.  One of my favorite healthy winter foods is spaghetti squash.  When cooked the flesh resembles noodles, hence the name spaghetti squash.

The next time you are planning to whip up a batch of spaghetti use spaghetti squash instead of noodles.  It is a nutritious winter squash full of nutrients like Vitamin C, Folic Acid and Potassium.  It is also low in carbohydrates and calories.  We love spaghetti squash this time of year.  Not only do we use it with spaghetti sauce (see my healthy meatball recipe HERE), we also enjoy topped with chili or stew.

Spaghetti squash is also easy to prepare.  Simply use a sharp knife to prick some holes throughout the squash and bake it (on a baking sheet) in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 45 minutes to an hour (turning the squash halfway through the cooking process) or until the squash is tender.  Cut the squash lengthwise, scoop out the seeds (and set aside) and fork out the noodle-like flesh (this is the part to eat).

(photos courtesy of MarthaStewart.com)

This is also a great way to get your kids eating more vegetables especially in the winter.  My son cleans his plate when we serve spaghetti squash!  He loves it!  Enjoy!