Chef-No-Tell

Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Servings: 8

Dr. Weil. Spaghetti squash may look funny, but it's full of vitamins and minerals, especially carotenes. This vegetarian casserole is low in calories and very satisfying as a main dish; add a mixed green salad and some good bread.

Ingredients

Directions

Place the spaghetti squash in a large pot of water (it should float) and bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover and boil gently for 50 minutes. Or bake the squash: cut it lengthwise and place the halves skin-side down in a baking dish with an inch of water. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.

While the squash is cooking, peel and slice the carrots, celery, onion and bell pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and add the onion and carrot, with some water to prevent sticking. Saute over medium heat for 5 minutes. Add remaining vegetables with some red pepper flakes and a dash of salt, if desired. Saute, stirring frequently, until vegetables are barely tender, about 10 minutes.

Add crushed tomatoes, basil and oregano to taste, and a sprinkle of ground allspice. Add the garlic. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, grate the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Remove squash from pot or oven and allow to cool until you can handle it. If it is whole, cut it in half lengthwise, then remove seeds with a spoon and squeeze any excess water out of the flesh.

Remove the flesh and break it up into strands with a fork or potato masher. Mix squash well with the vegetables and put half in the bottom of a large baking dish. Top with half the cheeses, the rest of the squash, and then the rest of the cheeses.

Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Let cool 15-20 minutes before serving.