Sheet-Pan Spaghetti Squash Puttanesca
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
This vibrant spaghetti squash puttanesca offers a nutritious, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta without sacrificing those bold Mediterranean flavours. By oven-roasting the squash alongside juicy cherry tomatoes, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and briny capers, you create a rich and savoury sauce that coats every strand perfectly. It is a fantastic vegetarian-friendly option for anyone looking for a lighter meal that still feels indulgent and satisfying.
As a diabetes-friendly dish, this recipe focuses on high-fibre ingredients and healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts. The addition of creamy ricotta provides a lovely contrast to the tangy olives and herbs, making it an ideal midweek dinner. Serve it warm as a wholesome main course that celebrates fresh produce and simple, rustic preparation.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Sheet-Pan Spaghetti Squash Puttanesca
1 large spaghetti squash (3 1/2–1.8kg )
Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper
Nonstick vegetable cooking spray
1 oil-packed anchovy fillet, drained, finely chopped (optional)
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
350g cherry tomatoes (about 475ml )
575ml shiitake mushrooms, stemmed, quartered (about 350ml )
60ml pitted oil-cured black olives, chopped
1 tablespoon drained capers
1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil, divided
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh parsley, divided
1/2 cup ricotta
An 18x13" rimmed baking sheet
How to make Sheet-Pan Spaghetti Squash Puttanesca
Position rack in centre of oven and preheat to 191°C. Halve squash lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Season inside of squash with salt and pepper. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray; lay halves cut side down on sheet and bake 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, combine anchovy (if using), garlic, tomatoes, mushrooms, olives, capers, red pepper flakes, and 2 tablespoons oil in a large bowl. Remove baking sheet from oven and transfer tomato mixture to sheet alongside squash. Return to oven and cook until squash is tender and shell is easily pierced, about 15 minutes more.
Meanwhile, toast pine nuts in a dry small skillet over medium-low heat, tossing often, until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Immediately transfer to a plate; set aside.
Remove sheet from oven. Scrape squash crosswise to pull strands from shells into a medium bowl; discard shells. Using the back of a fork or spoon, gently push down on tomatoes on sheet to break them up and release their juices. Scrape tomato mixture and any accumulated juices into bowl with squash. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, then toss with half of basil, parsley, and reserved pine nuts. Divide among bowls and dollop with ricotta. Garnish with remaining basil, parsley, and pine nuts.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.