Herbed Spaghetti Squash/Mozzarella Recipe

1 large spaghetti squash(3lb.)
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into bits
5 large cloves garlic, peeled, halved
4 oz. smoked or plain mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-in. dice
1 cup loosely packed finely shredded basil leaves

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Halve squash lengthwise. Scoop out and discard seeds. Place cut side up in baking pan; add butter and garlic to hollow centers. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Cover tightly with foil; bake 1 1/2 hours or until very tender.(To Microwave: With fork, pierce whole squash several times. Place in glass baking dish. cook on high 18 minutes, turning squash every 4 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes. Place butter in small glass bowl; melt on high 30 seconds. Add garlic; cook on high 1 minute; with fork, mash. Halve squash lengthwise; seed.)

2.Remove squash from oven; discard foil. with fork, transfer garlic to small bowl;mash. With fork, comb squash strands into large bowl. Add mashed garlic,cheese and basil; toss. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Makes 6 servings.