How to cook yellow squash in the microwave

Learn how to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave in just three easy steps! Cutting and seeding the spaghetti squash happens after cooking.

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Simple Squash
Ingredients
Instructions
Microwave instructions:
How do you soften squash in the microwave?
How do you cut and cook yellow squash?
Do you have to peel yellow squash?
Does yellow squash have to be cooked?

A few weeks ago on Facebook and Instagram, I felt so darn proud of myself because I figured out how to cook a whole spaghetti squash in the oven.

Based on responses, I wasn’t the only one that’s made their life easier [and kept a few fingers] by cooking the spaghetti squash whole; saving the cutting and seeding for when the squash is soft enough to handle after cooking. I was pleasantly surprised by the number of people that also shared that they cook their spaghetti squash whole in the microwave— and then go on to the cutting and seeding part.

Same results, in a fraction of the time. You know I had to try it…

Since I’m writing a post on how to cook a spaghetti squash in the microwave, I’m sure you’ve realized the method works. And yes, I’m not going back to my old oven ways!

Once you have the finished product [spaghetti squash strands], there are countless ways to eat it!

I sometimes keep it very simple and serve as-is for an easy side dish. If I’m feeling extra fancy and want the boys the eat their portion, I’ll add some butter and Parmesan cheese OR top it with classic marinara sauce.

If the boys are in bed before I eat dinner, I might go spicy and even top it with spicy peanut sauce and shredded carrots for a Thai-version! Essentially everything you add to spaghetti noodles you can add to spaghetti squash. Just remember that spaghetti squash strands have more of a “bite” to them than noodles do. Hence why I need to “mask” it for the toddler and baby crew in this house… whatever it takes folks, whatever it takes!

Here’s my 2pm cooking helper [big bro is napping and he’s not] wanting in on some of the microwave action too! With a magnet in his mouth… [magnet play board is next to microwave].

Yield: 2 servings
Nutrition InfoNutritional AnalysisPer ServingServing Size1 of 2 servingsCalories103Total Fat0 gSaturated Fat0 gCarbohydrates27 gDietary Fiber4 gSugar0Protein2 gCholesterol0 mgSodium8 mg

Yield: 2 servings
Nutrition InfoNutritional AnalysisPer ServingServing Size1 of 2 servingsCalories103Total Fat0 gSaturated Fat0 gCarbohydrates27 gDietary Fiber4 gSugar0Protein2 gCholesterol0 mgSodium8 mg

To cook squash in the microwave, cut squash in 1/2, scoop out the seeds as if you were cleaning cantaloupe only it will be a little harder. Lay cut side down on a piece of microwave safe plastic wrap placed directly on microwave bottom or plate. Cook on high in 5 minute intervals until completely softened and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes for 1/2 an acorn squash. Cook times will vary depending upon the size and variety of your squash.

I’m showing you how to do this on the stove top but I have instructions on how to do it in the microwave at the bottom as well.

add about a cup of water, just enough to cover the bottom of the skillet.

Now at this point, you can add about a tablespoon of bacon grease if you want to add in a bit more flavor. I’m just leaving mine water though because I dearly love the flavor of the squash on its own and the onion is compliment enough for me today.

Sometimes I do add bacon grease though, totally up to you.

Place on medium high heat just until the water in the bottom of the pan is gently boiling, then reduce heat to medium.

Put the lid on that and let it cook over medium heat for about ten minutes, or until the squash and onions are translucent

Translucent is fancy talk for “til they ain’t so white like they was when ya cut ’em”

Now see this is a photo of some squash translucent and some not. See that squash in the center?

That one is done, stick a fork in it and eat up right now if ya want!

You can see some of the other ones still have a bit of white on them so they need a few more minutes

There, all done! Now we just gotta get them out with a slotted spoon to drain the water, place them on a plate and salt and pepper them!

Isn’t it pretty in this Jewel Tea bowl?

Salt and Pepper according to taste and you’re ready to go!

Simple Squash

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Ingredients

Yellow Squash I am using two, sliced
1/2 Onion chopped, I use Vidalia if I can get them otherwise a white onion will do.
1 Tbsp bacon grease optional (I left it out this time)
1 tsp garlic optional
1 cup water
Salt, Pepper to taste

Instructions

Place squash and onion in skillet. If you are using bacon grease add it now. You can also add the garlic here too then about 1 cup of water, just enough to cover bottom of pan and bring to a gentle boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cover, simmering for about ten minutes or until squash and onions are translucent. Strain out of the pan and salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Notes

Microwave instructions:

Place squash and onion in microwave safe bowl. Add water (Add garlic and a bit of bacon grease, remember these 2 are optional). Cover and microwave on high three to four minutes, or until translucent. Drain water and salt and pepper to taste.

How do you soften squash in the microwave?

Start by making several large slits through the skin with the tip of a sharp knife. This helps the air release as your squash heats up (so your squash doesn't explode when you microwave it). Next, microwave the squash on high for approximately 3-5 minutes to soften the skin, which makes it easier to cut.

How do you cut and cook yellow squash?

Cut the squash in half lengthwise, then lay the halves flat on the cutting board and cut in half lengthwise again to create quarters. Cut the quarters in half crosswise, rest on a flat side and angle the knife to cut out the seeds. Cut the seeded pieces in half lengthwise, then rotate and cut crosswise to dice.

Do you have to peel yellow squash?

Wash squash and cut off ends before eating. The peel is edible and mild. Squash can be eaten raw or cooked.

Does yellow squash have to be cooked?

The seeds and skin are soft and fully edible. They are sometimes referred to as “soft shell squash” and as such, can be cooked or eaten raw. The entire squash is edible, versus the winter squash's hard seeds and shell that needs to be removed.