Spaghetti squash is reheated in so many ways. Thaw your spaghetti squash and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, or you can heat the squash from frozen. When you reheat from thawing, the squash reheats more evenly. If you are short on time and still reheat whilst frozen. That will not compromise its quality. In this article are methods to choose from and the instructions to follow.
Microwave
You can have your spaghetti squash microwaved frozen, or thawed. If frozen, allow the spaghetti squash to thaw in the refrigerator, or remove the chilled squash from the fridge. It does not have to thaw completely but lose the cold a bit.
Steps
- Place the spaghetti squash into a microwavable dish.
- Drizzle in a small amount of olive oil, with some seasoning of your choice. Mix it and put the dish into the microwave.
- Cover the dish with a lid or paper towel.
- Let it cook on medium power for 45 seconds.
- Unlike the stovetop, you have to remove it from the microwave, stir it around and check the heat.
- When necessary, place it back into the microwave for another 30 seconds.
- Serve when satisfied.
Steamer
When reheating spaghetti squash in the steamer, allow it to thaw in the fridge first. Failure to do so gives you a soggy finish, and the chances are high that the centre will not heat. Take the spaghetti squash and place the strands into the steamer.
The steamer comes with its advantages and drawbacks. It offers a gentle way to reheat the spaghetti squash. The chances are slim that they will burn or dry since you are warming them with steam.
However, you will not be able to reheat more spaghetti squash at once, but a larger steamer can warm a good portion of spaghetti squash in one go. Just like a stovetop, the steamer method takes longer than the microwave. Wait for the steamer to heat up, and you need more time for the squash to heat through. If left in the steamer for too long, the spaghetti squash becomes too soft and mushy from over-steaming.
Steps
- Take your spaghetti into the steamer.
- Allow the squash to steam for 5 minutes until the strands are cooked and warmed.
- When satisfied, serve immediately.
Skillet
Thaw the spaghetti squash first before using a skillet. Once thawed, place the squash on a plate and dry. For better results, you need to get rid of more moisture. The process will give you soft noodles but change them for crispy, tasty noodles.
One of the advantages of using a skillet is that it gives you crispy noodles. It also gives them a different texture than what you get reheating them in the microwave, stovetop, or steamer. It does not take too long to do it either.
However, you will not be able to get soft noodles. You cannot use this method if you want soft noodles. Use it if you want some crispy strands.
Steps
- Thaw the spaghetti squash.
- Pat dry it.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. When the olive oil has heated, add the spaghetti squash and spread it around in a thin layer in the pan. Season with salt and pepper and let it cook until golden brown and crisp.
Best method
Stovetop
The best way to reheat spaghetti squash is on the stovetop. Thaw the spaghetti squash before reheating it on the stovetop. When using the stovetop to reheat spaghetti squash, chances are low that you will have the squash drying out as it reheats in boiled water. Reheating the squash from frozen saves you some time defrosting it beforehand.
However, the stovetop takes longer to reheat the meal than the microwave. You have to wait for the water to boil, and then add the squash for another minute. It is easier to overcook the squash. It could turn it mushed and soggy. That is not good for a dish.
Steps
- Place water into a saucepan and lightly salt it.
- Allow the water to boil and add to the spaghetti squash.
- Turn the heat down, leaving the spaghetti squash to simmer in the boiling water for up to 7 minutes, until it is heated.
Storage
Cooked spaghetti squash should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. Freeze cooked spaghetti squash to ensure it stays longer, and you can always have it on hand. Cover your squash with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator overnight. That helps you drain the squash of any excess moisture so that it will not be soggy and mushy when you defrost it.
Transfer strands to a freezer bag OR divide them into several separate bags for individual portions. Press out excess air to prevent freezer burn, seal, and label. Freeze for up to eight months. The stove top keeps your food natural (Allareaappliancellc.com) .
Safe Temperatures
Reheating frozen or refrigerated spaghetti squash works in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
FAQs
Is reheated spaghetti Squash as good as freshly cooked squash?
Fresh spaghetti squash is always better than frozen or refrigerated ones. That does not mean you should not keep it for later.
Reheated spaghetti squash still holds up well and keeps its great texture and taste. Expect to lose some flavour and texture through the freezing and thawing process, but not much. For a more delicious dish, add ingredients or sauce of your choice. If overcooked, reheated food becomes soggy (Insider.com).
Can you freeze Spaghetti Squash?
Yes, you can freeze spaghetti squash to keep it fresh for longer. Cook the spaghetti squash partially before freezing and allow it to sit in the fridge till cool before freezing. That process removes excess moisture from the squash. Chilling the squash down prevents moisture in the freezer container.
Once chilled, place the squash into a freezer bag, remove air, and seal. Label the bag with the date of freezing. It is a choice to separate the strands into smaller portions and place them into individual freezer bags.
You can still have your spaghetti squash in good quality and texture for up to 8 months, but the taste and texture will deteriorate.
Does freezing spaghetti squash affect its nutritional value?
No, freezing spaghetti squash does not affect the nutritional value. You can still enjoy it later with all the health benefits. Freezing slows down the deterioration of the vegetable’s nutritional value when preserved for longer.
How long can spaghetti squash be kept in the fridge?
Keep it in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days. Uncooked spaghetti squash can remain in the fridge for 2 to 4 days.
Can you overcook spaghetti squash?
Yes, it is possible to overcook spaghetti squash. Longer periods can change the texture and cause the spaghetti squash to turn mushy, which ruins the dish. For better results, check the spaghetti squash regularly until it is ready.