Step 1

Bring a large stockpot of water to a boil. Add squash, and weigh down with a heatproof plate or bowl (to keep squash submerged). Return to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, and cook, covered, until tender when pierced with the tip of a knife, 30 to 45 minutes. Use tongs and a clean kitchen towel to remove from boiling water. Let stand until cool enough to handle. Halve lengthwise, scoop out seeds, then remove squash in strands using a fork to pull or scrape out.

Step 2

Mound squash on a serving platter. Drizzle with oil, and dot with butter. Season with salt and pepper, sprinkle with herbs and Parmesan, and top with a dollop of ricotta cheese. Serve immediately.