Sesame Spaghetti Squash Noodles with Broccoli Recipe

If you are looking for a vibrant, healthy twist on classic noodles, the Sesame Spaghetti Squash Noodles with Broccoli Recipe is absolutely the way to go. This dish transforms humble spaghetti squash into springy, flavorful noodles that pair perfectly with roasted broccoli and a luscious sesame dressing. It’s a refreshing, nourishing meal that feels indulgent but is packed with wholesome ingredients and bright flavors. Whether you’re craving a light dinner or a stunning side dish, this recipe is sure to become one of your kitchen staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Sesame Spaghetti Squash Noodles with Broccoli Recipe lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. Every ingredient here plays a key role—from the nutty sesame oil to the crisp, roasted broccoli—offering a wonderful variety of taste, texture, and color that makes the dish pop.

• 1 spaghetti squash: The star of the dish that creates naturally gluten-free, low-carb noodles with a tender, slightly crunchy bite.
• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, divided: Used for roasting and enhancing the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
• A pinch of salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to bring out the subtle sweetness of the squash and broccoli.
• 3 cups broccoli florets: Roasted until tender and slightly caramelized, adding fresh green color and earthy flavor.
• 3 scallions, thinly sliced: Add a mild onion punch and a lovely bright crunch.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle on top for a fragrant, nutty finish and a little extra texture.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free): Provides salty, umami depth for the sesame dressing.
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil: Brings warm, toasted flavor that ties the whole dish together deliciously.
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar: Offers a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the oils and soy sauce.
• 1 clove garlic, crushed: Punctuates the dressing with a fresh, aromatic kick.

How to Make Sesame Spaghetti Squash Noodles with Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

Start by slicing your spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scooping out all the seeds—don’t skip this step or those seeds will surprise you later! Drizzle the flesh with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper evenly. Place the squash halves flesh side down on a baking sheet. Roast at 350°F for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Once cooled enough to handle, take a fork and gently scrape the inside to create those beautiful noodle-like strands. Transfer these strands to a large bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Roast the Broccoli

While the squash is cooking, toss your broccoli florets with a teaspoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring each floret is lightly coated. Place them on a baking sheet and roast in the 350°F oven for about 15 minutes. A neat timing tip is to add the broccoli to the oven during the last 15 minutes of the squash’s roasting time. The broccoli will come out gorgeous—tender with tips that have a slight caramelized edge, adding superb flavor and texture contrast.

Step 3: Prepare the Sesame Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, toasted sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and crushed garlic. This simple dressing brings that irresistible combination of salty, nutty, and tangy notes that marry all the ingredients together perfectly.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Now, combine the roasted broccoli, spaghetti squash noodles, and thinly sliced scallions in your large bowl. Pour the sesame dressing over the top and toss everything gently but thoroughly to evenly coat all the strands and florets. To finish, sprinkle a tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds over your masterpiece for that irresistible crunch and toasty aroma.

How to Serve Sesame Spaghetti Squash Noodles with Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can really elevate this dish. I love adding an extra scatter of chopped scallions or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat. A small handful of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can bring a burst of freshness that complements the sesame flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is both satisfying and light, it pairs wonderfully with protein-rich sides like grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp. For a simpler meal, a crisp cucumber salad or steamed edamame fits right in without overpowering the delicate squash noodles.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Sesame Spaghetti Squash Noodles with Broccoli Recipe in little individual bowls for a stunning presentation, topped with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For a fun twist, try stuffing the spaghetti squash halves with the mixture for an elegant and rustic look that makes a great impression when entertaining friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores nicely in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days if you keep the dressing separate. Sauced squash noodles tend to soften over time, so to maintain the best texture, wait to add the dressing until just before serving your leftovers.

Freezing

You can freeze the spaghetti squash noodles if you keep them plain and undressed. Make sure the squash is cool before placing it into freezer-safe bags, squeezing out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Keep in mind the broccoli’s texture might change after freezing, so it’s best to add fresh or roast broccoli fresh after thawing if you want to preserve that lovely crispness.

Reheating

The easiest way to warm up leftovers is gently microwaving for about a minute or tossing the noodles in a hot pan just until warmed through. This keeps the squash from getting too mushy and revives its delicate texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Snap peas, asparagus, or even shredded carrots can add delicious color and flavor. Just adjust roasting time depending on the vegetable’s density.

Is spaghetti squash gluten-free?

Yes, spaghetti squash is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe a wonderful option for anyone avoiding gluten or looking for a low-carb alternative to pasta.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is perfectly cooked?

You’ll know the squash is ready when its flesh easily shreds into noodle strands with a fork and feels tender when pierced. It should still have a slight firmness to retain that noodle-like texture.

Can I make the sesame dressing ahead of time?

Definitely! The sesame dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Whisk it again before serving as the ingredients may separate or settle.

What’s the best way to toast sesame seeds?

Toasting sesame seeds on a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring frequently unlocks their nutty aroma and deepens the flavor, giving your dish that extra special touch.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Sesame Spaghetti Squash Noodles with Broccoli Recipe. Its combination of fresh, roasted veggies, perfectly seasoned noodles, and that irresistible sesame dressing makes it a dish that you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re serving it as a wholesome main or an eye-catching side, it promises to brighten your table and warm your heart. Give this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy spaghetti squash!

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