How to save spaghetti squash?
I plan on preparing two dishes this week that will each involve 1/2 of a spaghetti squash. In order for the second dish to be 'as fresh as possible' should I prepare the whole squash and save the second half, or save the second half (unprepared) and bake it when I prepare the second dish? (Time to prepare is not a concern). How should the second half be saved? (refrigerate, wrapped, ...?)
Best Answer
I haven't specifically tried to save that variety of squash, but I've had good luck in general holding other varieties of winter squash for a few days by halving, sealing the cut side, and then refrigerating for. A few notes:
- If you have a large enough knife, just make a single cut through it.
- Either place it cut-side down on an appropriately sized dish with a flat bottom (eg, a casserole dish), or cover the cut side with plastic wrap ... (of plastic wrap, then set in the dish, so you don't accidentally knock off the plastic wrap in the next couple of days).
When it comes time to use the remaining half, if the cut surface is dry, shave a little off. Clean out the seed cavity when you're finally going to use it. (this allows you to scrape back down to moist flesh, and reduce evaporative loss)
How long you can hold it will likely be affected by things like how often you open your frdge. I've never tried putting in the crisper after wrapping (as I tend to have too much stuff in there already).
If you're looking to get the longest possible strands out of the squash, I think to need to cut it from stem to blossom end ... but that would increase the cut surface area. If that isn't a goal, it's probably better to cut it across the stem-blossom axis.
Pictures about "How to save spaghetti squash?"
Quick Answer about "How to save spaghetti squash?"
How to store spaghetti squash. Uncooked spaghetti squash that is stored in a cool (60 degrees F) and dry place can stay good for up to 3 months. Once cut, store in an airtight container in the fridge.How do you store spaghetti squash after cutting it?
Refrigerating Cut Spaghetti Squash. Wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap. If you've already cut, cooked, and eaten part of a spaghetti squash, you'll want to store the rest of it in the fridge. Wrap each piece of squash thoroughly with plastic wrap before putting it in the refrigerator.Can you save spaghetti squash after cooking?
Cooked spaghetti squash should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When stored correctly, it is good for 5-7 days.Can spaghetti squash be frozen?
Freeze it for later! Freezing spaghetti squash is super easy and takes less than an hour from start to finish. It's a great way to save your favorite gourd for winter.How long can you keep a cut spaghetti squash?
Raw whole spaghetti squash lasts for up to two months in a cool and dark place. Once you cut it open, it keeps for 5 to 7 days. Cooked spaghetti squash stays okay to eat for about 4 to 5 days.How to Harvest, Harden Off, and Store Spaghetti Squash
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Lisa, ready made, Karolina Grabowska, Thirdman