Spaghetti squash is a popular recipe for many reasons because it’s healthy, very tasty, gluten-free, and perfect for low-carb diets.
If you ever wanted to substitute traditional spaghetti, you cannot go wrong with spaghetti squash because it does a fantastic job of almost replicating this ingredient, much like spiralized zucchini which is also good for light and low-carb meals.
It’s one recipe that is often called in meal prep and batch cooking recipes because there can be plenty of leftovers when you make it from scratch.
This begs the question, can you reheat spaghetti squash? If so, how do you reheat it, and what are the best ways? While you can certainly reheat spaghetti squash, which keeps well in the fridge, there are a few methods, and it can depend on the type of meal you’re planning to reheat.
How to Reheat Spaghetti Squash (the best ways)
There are various methods to reheat spaghetti squash, but the best way is by using the stovetop because of the controlled heat and time which can reheat it to perfection without compromising taste or texture.
However, as with most meal preppers, if you plan to reheat cooked spaghetti squash at work for lunch, you will most likely be limited to only one option which is the microwave.
The microwave is another effective method, but first, let’s explore the best ways and explain how it can be reheated.
1) Reheat spaghetti squash on the stovetop
The best method is by using the stovetop which simply requires 10-12 minutes of your time. Here is how:
- On medium-high heat, bring salted water to boil and add the leftover spaghetti squash.
- Reduce heat to medium and allow the spaghetti squash to simmer for 8 minutes.
- Drain and serve.
It will taste fresh and good as new which means you don’t have to worry about the leftover squash drying out.
The only drawback is that you might not have access to a stovetop, if you plan to reheat the spaghetti at work, and there are quicker methods available.
2) Reheat spaghetti squash in the microwave
The most convenient method is of course the microwave which is more quick and accessible.
Here is how to reheat spaghetti squash in the microwave:
- Transfer the spaghetti squad to a microwavable dish
- Add a teaspoon of oil of your choice (extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil work best)
- Cover and reheat for 1 minute
- Stir and reheat again for 30 minutes
- Serve
Compared to the stovetop, the microwave is a quicker method, and it can be ideal if you travel to work and meal prep.
The only downside is that you may need to play around with the timing to reheat it to perfection as you don’t want to burn it out.
This is why you can reheat for 1 minute, check and stir, all before you reheat it again.
3) Reheat spaghetti squash on a skillet
If you prefer your spaghetti squash crispy when reheated, you should definitely use this method of reheating it on the skillet because it comes out perfect each time.
Here is how:
- On medium-high heat, add a teaspoon of oil (extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil) to the skillet for 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and add the leftover spaghetti squash.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook until it’s crispy
This is a preferred method for many meal preppers which can be ideal if you plan to reheat it in the evening and enjoy the crispiness of the spaghetti.
Is reheated spaghetti squash good for meal prep?
Although you cannot beat fresh food, reheated spaghetti squash is very good for meal prep and batch cooking recipes which is easy to reheat and it will taste great.
The good news is that leftover spaghetti squash can last in the fridge for up to 3-5 days which is perfect if you plan to reuse the recipe for the week ahead.
This can help you save time, save money and help you stay on track with healthy meal planning.
Can you freeze spaghetti squash?
Yes, you can certainly freeze spaghetti squash for up to 8 months and it’s a way to keep it fresh for longer which is why it’s ideal for meal prep and batch cooking.
However, it’s important to cook the spaghetti squash before you freeze it, keep it drained, and allow it to cool down completely before you freeze it.
Another important factor is how you keep it stored and by removing as much air as possible from your storage container.
This is why meal prep containers or freezer bags are the best storage methods because it will keep the spaghetti squash sealed tightly with the air removed.
As explained in this ultimate meal prep storage guide, it will help prevent freezer burn by storing the food in an air-tight container.
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