Pairing fish with spaghetti squash makes a tasty and nutritious meal. Spaghetti squash contains 35 calories per cup and only half a gram of fat, with 1 g each of fiber and protein. Fish is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for a healthy heart. The American Heart Association advises including at least two servings of fish per week in your diet. The versatile spaghetti squash complements any type of fish, from salmon to shrimp. Squash and fish are easy to prepare and require a minimum of fuss for maximum flavor.
Salmon
Salmon has the highest content of omega-3 fatty acids of any fish, and species range from the less expensive pink salmon to premium Copper River salmon. Spaghetti squash is a good side dish for all types of salmon. After you have cooked the squash and separated the strands, prepare it to complement the way the fish is cooked. For teriyaki salmon, stir-fry the squash with vegetables and an Asian inspired sauce. Accompany grilled salmon with squash tossed with herbs and lemon juice. Consider making spaghetti squash Alfredo with smoked salmon exactly as you would with pasta.
White Fish
White fish ranges from rich-tasting halibut to mild sole. Cod is most commonly used for the ubiquitous fish-and-chips dish, but instead of serving the battered fish with french fries, top a plate of spaghetti squash with chunky tomato sauce. For a unique dish, dust skate wings with cornmeal and lightly fry. Serve with spaghetti squash sautéed with garlic and herbs. A simple dish of herbed squash is a good accompaniment to flounder seasoned with sea salt and pepper. Drizzle a lemon butter sauce over both.
Catfish
While catfish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, it's often prepared in ways that boost the fat content. Frying catfish is traditional, and if you choose to go that route, prepare the squash as simply as possible for maximum nutrients and fewer calories. Consider baking the catfish, which is healthier than frying. Sprinkle it with bread crumbs for crunch or season it with paprika for a smoky flavor. Serve on a bed of well-peppered spaghetti squash.
Shrimp
Spaghetti squash and shrimp go together as well as pasta and shrimp. Saute or roast jumbo prawns with garlic and herbs and serve on a bed of spaghetti squash. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the dish. For an Asian inspired stir fry, toss the squash, shrimp and mixed vegetables of your choice in a hot pan with soy sauce, vinegar and just a little sugar. For a cold dish, let your squash cool and toss with cold, cooked tiny bay shrimp. Dress the dish with a yogurt based sauce with lime juice and cilantro.
References
- University of Illinois Extension: Spaghetti Squash
- American Heart Association; Fish 101; May 2010
- Food & Wine; Roasted Salmon With Spaghetti-Squash Salad; Marcia Kiesel
- Emerils.com: Peppered Flounder With Lemon Herb Spaghetti Squash
- Food Network; Coriander-Crusted Skate With Spaghetti Squash and Frizzled Brussels Sprout Leaves
- Martha Stewart: Roasted Shrimp With Spaghetti Squash



Member Comments