Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls
Try this Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls recipe.
Try this Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls recipe.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- salt & pepper
- 1 large red onion sliced
- 2 medium sized spaghetti squash
- 1 tablespoon high heat oil (i use sunflower oil)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 (16 ounce) jar of salsa (use your preferred level of spiciness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or preferred cooking oil)
- 1 large bell pepper or two small cored and sliced
- 2 cups corn kernels frozen and defrosted or fresh
- 1 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
- 2 jalapenos, cored and sliced (optional)
- 6 green onions sliced (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar/monterey jack cheese
- Carbohydrate 20.2154225072246 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.986938753079494 g
- Fiber 2.76142777572577 g
- Protein 3.0688627838331 g
- Saturated Fat 0.136363070389667 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (157g)
- Sodium 163.758584785242 mg
- Sugar 17.4539947314988 g
- Trans Fat 0.143900186682046 g
- Calories 90 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a cookie sheet with foil OR fill a 9 x 13 inch glass baking dish with about an inch of water.
- Wash the spaghetti squash and then slice off the stem at the top. Cut each squash in half lengthwise and then use a spoon to scrap out the seeds and the darker yellow strands that the seeds are attached to.
- Rub a little bit of high heat oil on the inner edges of the squash and then place each half face down on the baking sheet/dish.
- Roast in the oven for 30-45 minutes, depending on the size (longer for larger squash). You can test to see if it’s done by scraping the inside with a fork. Strands should come loose as you scrape all the way down to the flesh.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the filling by warming one tablespoon oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the red onion for a few minutes and then add the peppers and jalapeno. Sprinkle with salt & pepper and cumin and cook to desired softness.
- When the squash is done cooking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before handling.
- Turn the oven to broil and then transfer the squash to a surface where you can scrape the inside and begin stuffing.
- Scrape about 3/4 of the inside out onto a dish and then layer the filling inside (black beans and corn, peppers and onion, salsa and cilantro).
- Top with the spaghetti squash and press down then add another layer of filling.
- Sprinkle green onion on top and then finish with shredded cheese.
- Broil in the oven for about 5 minutes so that the cheese is bubble and golden brown then serve!
My Unexpected Love Affair with Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, healthy, and, let's be honest, something the whole family will actually eat. For years, I struggled to find that sweet spot – something that satisfied my desire for nutritious meals without sacrificing convenience. Then, I discovered spaghetti squash burrito bowls. I know, I know, it sounds a little odd, but trust me on this one.
The initial appeal was purely practical. Spaghetti squash cooks quickly and requires minimal prep. Roasting it brings out a natural sweetness that complements the savory burrito bowl flavors perfectly. But it wasn't just the convenience that won me over. The taste was incredible. The soft, stringy flesh of the squash provides a delightful base, a surprising alternative to rice or traditional tortillas. Combined with the vibrant flavors of black beans, corn, peppers, onions, and a generous helping of salsa, it's a fiesta in a bowl – a healthy, vibrant fiesta, at that!
I started experimenting with different variations. One night, it was a smoky chipotle salsa; another night, I added a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese for a salty tang. Sometimes I'd throw in some leftover grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. The beauty of this dish is its versatility. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, readily adapting to whatever ingredients you have on hand. And the best part? My kids adore it. They’re usually picky eaters, but the burrito bowls have become a family favorite. The vibrant colors and fun textures make it visually appealing even for the most discerning palates.
Beyond the culinary satisfaction, making these bowls is a therapeutic experience. The simple act of roasting the squash, the satisfying sizzle of the sautéing onions and peppers, the careful layering of ingredients – it's a mindful process that allows me to de-stress after a long day at work. It's a moment of calm in the whirlwind of motherhood and career. It's a quiet moment of self-care disguised as dinner preparation.
The recipe itself is surprisingly simple. The straightforward instructions make it easy for even the most novice cooks to master. There's a sense of accomplishment in creating a delicious and healthy meal from scratch, especially when it’s done with such ease. And the cleanup is a breeze, which is always a bonus in my book!
More than just a meal, these spaghetti squash burrito bowls represent a shift in my approach to cooking. It's a reminder that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be flavorful, fun, and surprisingly satisfying. It’s a testament to the fact that even the simplest ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. And for a busy mom like me, that’s a victory worth celebrating, one delicious bowl at a time.
This recipe has become more than just a meal; it's a symbol of balance in my life. It’s a delicious, healthy, and convenient way to nourish my family while also nourishing my soul. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time for a little bit of culinary joy. So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner recipe that's sure to become a family favorite, give these spaghetti squash burrito bowls a try. You might just find yourself falling in love, as I did.
Beyond the Recipe: Tips and Variations
This recipe is incredibly adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with various ingredients to create your own unique version. For instance:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili for extra heat.
- Add some protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make excellent additions.
- Get creative with toppings: Guacamole, sour cream, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips can add extra flavor and texture.
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: Ensure your cheese and any other ingredients align with your dietary preference.
- Customize the salsa: Use your favorite salsa or make your own for a truly personalized touch.
Remember, cooking should be fun! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your family. Enjoy!
