Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of spaghetti squash with a savory spinach and artichoke filling. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish is quick to make, even for beginners.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spinach, artichokes, and cheese creates a creamy, delicious filling that’s hard to resist.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and lower in carbs than pasta, it’s a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Versatile Dish: This stuffed spaghetti squash can serve as a main course or side dish, making it adaptable for any meal.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A tasty option for vegetarians, without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having these tools ready will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Large pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly in the oven.
• Sharp knife: Necessary for cutting the squash safely and easily.
• Large pan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and mixing ingredients without crowding.

Ingredients

Sweet spaghetti squash stuffed with savoury spinach and artichoke filling.

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 2 spaghetti squashes
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

For the Filling

• 2 cloves garlic
• 220 g / 7 cups fresh spinach
• 400 g / 14 oz canned artichokes (drained and chopped)
• 250 ml / 1 cup cream cheese (full fat)
• 4 tbsp mayonnaise
• 50 ml / 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegetarian hard cheese)
• 120 g / 1 cup mozzarella (grated)

How to Make Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200C/400F. Cut each spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Brush the cut surface with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt. Place the halves cut side up on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach Mixture

While the squash is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic to the pan and cook it briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add fresh spinach to the pan, stirring until it wilts and any excess liquid evaporates.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the spinach is wilted, add the drained and chopped artichokes to the pan. Sauté everything together for one minute. Lower the heat before adding cream cheese; stir until melted and well-combined.

Step 4: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Take off the heat and stir in mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese (reserve about 2 tablespoons), and mozzarella until fully combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Squash

Evenly divide the creamy spinach-artichoke mixture among all four roasted squash halves. Sprinkle with reserved Parmesan cheese on top. Return them to the oven to bake for another 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Enjoy your Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash!

How to Serve Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Serving your Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

As a Main Course

• Pair with a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich filling perfectly.

With Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread or garlic bread. This adds a delightful crunch and makes it easier to scoop up the filling.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to the dish.

Accompanied by a Light Soup

• Enjoy it with a light vegetable soup as an appetizer. This warms up the meal and provides a comforting touch.

How to Perfect Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

To achieve the best results with your Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe squash: Look for spaghetti squashes that feel heavy for their size. This indicates ripeness and better flavor.

• Don’t rush roasting: Allow the squash enough time to roast properly. This enhances its sweetness and texture.

• Sauté spinach well: Ensure the spinach is fully wilted before mixing it in. This prevents excess moisture from making the filling soggy.

• Mix cheeses thoroughly: Combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese well. This ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout the filling.

• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your stuffed squash while baking. The top should be bubbly and golden for a perfect finish.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Adding complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience with Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. Here are some great options.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, offering a crunchy texture and tangy dressing that balances the richness of the squash.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional flavors and nutrients to your plate while providing a colorful contrast.

3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds freshness and is packed with protein.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for a comforting side that complements the savory filling of the squash.

5. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add brightness and crunch without overpowering the main dish.

6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs offers a light, fluffy side that soaks up any juices from the stuffed squash nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash, it’s essential to be mindful of common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is at the correct temperature before placing your spaghetti squash inside.
• Overcooking the Squash: Cooking the squash for too long can make it mushy. Roast until tender but still firm; about 40 minutes should suffice.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season your filling can result in bland flavors. Be sure to add salt and pepper at each stage of cooking for a well-rounded taste.
• Not Draining Artichokes Properly: Using canned artichokes without draining them can make the filling watery. Ensure they are thoroughly drained and chopped before adding them to the mixture.
• Ignoring Cheese Variations: Sticking only to Parmesan or mozzarella might limit flavor diversity. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. Place the stuffed squash in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until piping hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash?

Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a delightful dish featuring roasted spaghetti squash filled with a savory mixture of spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and mozzarella.

Can I customize the filling of Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash?

Yes! You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or other vegetables based on your preference.

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

The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold its shape. A cooking time of about 40 minutes is generally sufficient.

Is Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with nutrients from spinach and artichokes while being lower in carbs than traditional pasta dishes.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives, and choose vegan cheese options for a fully vegan dish.

Final Thoughts

Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash offers a delicious blend of flavors that makes it an appealing option for dinner. It’s versatile too; you can easily customize it by adding different ingredients or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that’s both comforting and satisfying!