We live in the South, and in the South summer is HOT. These past few weeks it seems summer’s been hot all over the entire east coast. Hot weather changes the way you feel and makes you want to eat lighter meals. One meal that our family really enjoys all year round but especially in the summer is an alternative to the heavy and carb loaded spaghetti.
The alternative meal is spaghetti squash. It’s extremely easy to make and you can take a few alternatives when preparing it.
The first thing you need is a spaghetti squash which you will bake at 375. I’m a pretty strong guy so I like to cut and scrape the squash before baking it but you can alternatively bake it first and then cut and scrape but make sure you use a fork to poke some holes in the Squash first if you bake it before cutting it. An it will take about 45 - 50 minutes to get soft.
If your a little less creative or short on time you can buy some sauce from the store pour it on top and your ready to go. But if you have a bit more time, want to prep a healthier meal, and are a truly savvy parent then I have great sauce recipe for you.
Get an onion, clove of garlic, Mushrooms, box of stewed Tomato, Pepper, Salt and oregano. If you want you can also add ground turkey, chicken, beef or soy grounds. I personally like the soy grounds and they add protein. Spray a frying pan with Pam add the onion, garlic and mushrooms. Put the stewed tomato in a sauce pan and begin to heat on low. Make sure you have cut the onion, garlic and mushrooms and saute them. After they have begun to caramelize add your protein of choice and saute until cooked. Now drain and add to the sauce. Add oregano, pepper and salt to taste. I will also add parmesan and a little bit of honey to take out some of the acidity and add a touch of sweetness to the sauce. Cook in the sauce pan on low heat for about 20 minutes and then pour over the spaghetti squash. You now have a savvy and delicious meal the kids will love and they will eat their vegetables too.
By guestblogger Kevin Metzger www.TheDadvocateproject.com
