Cooking squash in the microwave is a fantastic way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable without heating up your kitchen or spending too much time. Whether you have butternut, acorn, spaghetti, or delicata squash, microwaving is a speedy and simple method that retains flavor and nutrients. Let’s dive into how you can cook squash in the microwave perfectly every time!
Why Microwave Squash?
– Speed: Microwaving squash takes just minutes compared to baking or roasting, which can take 30-60 minutes.
– Convenience: No need to preheat the oven or use multiple pots and pans.
– Nutrient Retention: Steaming or cooking squash in the microwave preserves more vitamins and minerals.
– Easy Cleanup: Minimal dishes and mess.
What You’ll Need
– 1 medium squash (butternut, acorn, spaghetti, or delicata)
– Sharp knife
– Microwave-safe dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap
– Water
– Oven mitts or a towel for handling hot dishes
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Squash in the Microwave
1. Prepare the Squash
Start by washing your squash thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the stem. Depending on the squash type and your microwave-safe dish size, cut the squash in half or into quarters. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center.
For spaghetti squash, you can also microwave it whole after piercing the skin with a knife or fork several times to prevent it from bursting.
2. Arrange in Microwave-Safe Dish
Place the squash pieces cut side down in your microwave-safe dish. Add about 1/4 inch of water to the bottom of the dish. This water creates steam that helps cook the squash evenly and keeps it moist.
3. Cover and Vent
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. This steaming environment cooks the squash gently and helps retain its vibrant color and flavor.
4. Microwave Cooking Time
Set your microwave to high power and cook the squash:
– For halves or quarters: Start with 5 minutes. Check tenderness with a fork.
– For whole spaghetti squash: Microwave 5-6 minutes per side for a 2-pound squash. Adjust time for larger or smaller squash by adding or subtracting 1-2 minutes per side.
If the squash isn’t tender enough, continue microwaving in 1-2 minute increments until fork-tender but not mushy.
5. Check and Serve
Carefully remove the dish from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel. Test the squash by poking it with a fork; it should slide in easily. Let it cool slightly before handling.
For spaghetti squash, cut it open lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and use a fork to rake the flesh into noodle-like strands.
Season your squash with butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, maple syrup, brown sugar, or your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Squash
– Pierce whole squash: If microwaving whole (especially spaghetti squash), pierce the skin multiple times to prevent pressure buildup and explosion.
– Adjust time by size: Larger squash needs more time; smaller squash less. Always start with less time and add more if needed.
– Use a vented cover: Prevents sogginess and allows steam to escape safely.
– Handle carefully: Microwave dishes get hot; use protection to avoid burns.
– Flavor variations: Try adding maple syrup and butter for a sweet touch or Parmesan cheese for a savory twist.
Microwave Squash Recipe Ideas
– Microwave Acorn Squash with Maple Syrup: Cut acorn squash in half, spread butter inside, spoon maple syrup over, and microwave 10-15 minutes until tender.
– Steamed Butternut Squash: Cut butternut into cubes, add water, cover, and microwave for 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
– Spaghetti Squash “Noodles”: Microwave whole, then shred and toss with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan for a low-carb pasta alternative.
– Delicata Squash with Brown Sugar and Butter: Microwave slices with butter and brown sugar for a sweet, caramelized side dish.
Microwaving squash is a quick, easy, and versatile way to enjoy this healthy vegetable any day of the week. Experiment with different types of squash and seasonings to find your favorite combinations!
Enjoy your perfectly cooked squash!