Enjoy a healthier version of Pad Thai with this delicious spaghetti squash recipe. This dish is packed with savory flavors and colorful vegetables, making it both nutritious and flavorful. With a preparation time of around 45 minutes, you can have a satisfying Thai-inspired meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional for non-vegetarian version)
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and pulp using a spoon.
- Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh can easily be scraped into strands using a fork. Set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the julienned carrots, red bell pepper, and bean sprouts to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, creating space for the beaten eggs. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble them until fully cooked.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti squash strands with the sautéed vegetables and scrambled eggs in the skillet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), tamarind paste, and brown sugar until well combined. Pour the sauce over the squash and vegetable mixture.
- Toss everything together until the sauce is evenly distributed and the ingredients are well-coated.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve the Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing extra citrusy flavor over each serving!
Interesting Facts
Spaghetti squash is an excellent low-carb alternative to traditional wheat-based pasta.
Pad Thai is a popular Thai dish known for its sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
Tamarind paste adds a tangy and slightly sweet taste to the dish.
Bean sprouts not only add crunch but also provide a good source of vitamin C.