Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is a delightful twist on traditional chow mein, perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy, vegetable-packed meal. This recipe highlights the unique texture of spaghetti squash while combining vibrant vegetables and savory sauces. It’s suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it with your preferred proteins or additional veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Alternative: Made with spaghetti squash instead of noodles, it’s lower in carbs and rich in nutrients.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and fresh veggies creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding chicken, beef, or extra vegetables based on your preference.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy this dish again.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sheet pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet
• Medium bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Sheet pan: Ideal for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly in the oven.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures you can cut through the tough skin of the squash safely.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and mixing everything together without overcrowding.
• Medium bowl: Useful for mixing sauces before adding them to your stir-fry.

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)

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 Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or grape seed oil)
• 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and connecting strands from inside each half. Place them cut side down on the prepared sheet pan.

Step 3: Bake Until Tender

Bake for about 45 minutes or until the flesh becomes tender. Use a fork to gently separate the strands from each half once done. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

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

Step 5: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the spaghetti squash strands to the skillet along with your prepared sauce. Stir everything together until all components are coated with sauce. Cook for another minute until heated through but avoid overcooking to keep it from becoming mushy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with cilantro if using and serve with hot sauce on the side.

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a part of a larger meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Protein Additions

• Chicken: Grilled or sautéed chicken breast pieces can add a hearty texture and flavor.
• Shrimp: Lightly sautéed shrimp complement the dish beautifully and add a seafood twist.
• Beef: Thinly sliced beef, cooked until tender, can enhance the overall taste.
• Turkey: Ground turkey mixed in adds lean protein and can make the dish more filling.

As a Side Dish

• With Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables can provide extra crunch and nutrition.
• Alongside Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls offer a delightful contrast to the soft strands of spaghetti squash.
• Paired with Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings make for an excellent side option.

Garnished Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top for added freshness.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of chili garlic sauce or sriracha can spice things up according to preference.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Perfecting your Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.

• Choose the Right Squash: Look for firm spaghetti squash without soft spots for the best texture.
• Bake Thoroughly: Ensure you bake the squash until tender; undercooked squash won’t separate easily into strands.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Stir-fry vegetables just until tender to maintain their crunch and bright color.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and bell peppers will significantly improve flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for a balanced flavor profile that’s tailored to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Pairing side dishes with your Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Crispy Tofu Bites: Marinated tofu that’s baked or fried until golden is a great plant-based protein addition.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light and crispy rolls filled with veggies complement the chow mein perfectly.
3. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli tossed with garlic makes for a flavorful side that’s easy to prepare.
4. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, sesame oil, and vinegar balances the flavors well.
5. Fried Rice (Vegetarian): Vegetable fried rice provides additional heartiness while maintaining an Asian-inspired theme.
6. Miso Soup: Light miso soup can act as a soothing starter before diving into the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the squash – Cooking the spaghetti squash too long will make it mushy. Aim for tender strands that still hold their shape.
• Not seasoning properly – Skipping salt and pepper can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to enhance flavor.
• Skipping the sauce – The sauce is crucial for flavor in this dish. Don’t forget to mix it well with the spaghetti squash strands for an even taste.
• Using too much oil – While some oil is necessary, too much can make your Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein greasy. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced dish.
• Ignoring vegetable freshness – Using wilted or old vegetables affects texture and taste. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Ideal for freezing is up to 2 months.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for moisture, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein healthier?

You can increase the veggie content by adding more colorful vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. This adds nutrition and makes your dish more vibrant.

Can I use different proteins in Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein?

Absolutely! Chicken, turkey, or beef can be great additions. Just ensure they are cooked before adding them to the skillet with the vegetables.

What’s the best way to cut spaghetti squash?

Use a sharp knife and take your time. Cut lengthwise from stem to end; this helps the squash cook evenly and makes it easier to scoop out later.

Can I make Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the spaghetti squash in advance and store it separately from other ingredients. Assemble everything right before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein is an adaptable dish that marries flavors beautifully while being a healthier alternative to traditional chow mein. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins or extra veggies based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!