Paleo Foods: Spaghetti Squash

This oblong-shaped winter squash can weigh 2-4 pounds and has a pale yellow exterior skin. The inner flesh of a spaghetti squash looks like spaghetti and is mild tasting, just like pasta. Many Paleo and low-carb eaters use spaghetti squash as a substitute for noodles; just top with a pasta sauce and voila!

Easily prepare a spaghetti squash: cut the squash in half lengthwise down the middle, scoop out the seeds, then roast in the oven for 45-60 minutes.

Nutrition Details

Macros in Context

Here's how 1 cup of spaghetti squash stacks up in the context of a typical Paleo meal:

Blue bars show the typical range in grams for a Paleo meal. For example, a Paleo meal usually includes 30-60 grams of fat, but where you personally fall in that range will depend on your preference.

Orange dots show how 1 cup of spaghetti squash fits into the typical nutrient profile of a Paleo meal.

Buy It

PURCHASE: Be sure the spaghetti squash is firm, dry and blemish-free. Bruises and cracks will shorten the storage life.
SEASON: Peak harvest for spaghetti squash is late summer through winter.
STORAGE: Store spaghetti squash in a cool, dry area. They can be stored for many weeks, but check to be sure the skin is firm and blemish-free before cutting.