Spaghetti Squash with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Spaghetti Squash with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

For the Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut and Scoop:
   • Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and pulp using a spoon.
3. Roast Squash:
   • Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Scrape Squash Strands:
   • Once the spaghetti squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands. Transfer the strands to a large serving bowl.

Make the Pesto:

5. Prepare Ingredients:
   • In a food processor, combine fresh basil, grated Parmesan, pine nuts, and peeled garlic cloves.
6. Blend into Pesto:
   • Pulse the ingredients while gradually adding olive oil until a smooth pesto consistency is achieved. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Assemble the Dish:

7. Toss with Pesto:
   • Add the prepared pesto to the spaghetti squash strands. Toss until the squash is evenly coated with the pesto.
8. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
   • Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes.
9. Top with Toasted Pine Nuts and Parmesan:
   • Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and additional grated Parmesan over the top of the spaghetti squash.
10. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve the Spaghetti Squash with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes warm.

Notes:

• Toasting Pine Nuts: To toast pine nuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma.
• Customization: Feel free to customize the dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or your preferred protein for a more substantial meal.

This Spaghetti Squash with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes is a light, flavorful, and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Enjoy the freshness of the basil pesto combined with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes!

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