Garlic Spaghetti Squash

Squash provide numerous health benefits. The vegetable is high in vitamins A, B6, and C, folate, magnesium, fiber, riboflavin, phosphorus, and potassium. That's a serious nutritional power-packed veggie. Yellow squash is also rich in manganese.

It is a good source of fiber, potassium, and several other key nutrients. The nutritional content of squash makes it beneficial for digestion, blood pressure, and for healthy skin and hair, among others. Squash can enhance or form the basis of a range of sweet and savory dishes.

One cup (205 grams) of cooked butternut squash has only 83 calories and provides 7 grams of filling fiber — making it an excellent choice if you want to lose excess weight and body fat. Many studies have found that a higher dietary fiber intake promotes weight loss and reduces body fat.


Ingredients:

• 1 small spaghetti squash
• 2 tbsp. butter
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or 1/2 tsp powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded fresh parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 375F. Pierce squash a few times with sharp paring knife (to let steam escape). Bake spaghetti squash for 60 minutes. Let squash cool for 10 minutes.
• Cut squash in half, lengthwise. Use a fork to remove and discard the seeds. Continue using fork to scrape the squash to get long, lovely strands.
• Heat a large saute pan with the butter and the garlic over medium-low heat. When garlic becomes fragrant, add parsley, salt and spaghetti squash strands. Toss well, sprinkle in the parmesan cheese. Enjoy!