Pesto Squash Noodles and Spaghetti with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

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Are you looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta?

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Pesto Squash Noodles and Spaghetti with Burst Cherry Tomatoes
Prep
20 min
Cook
10 min
Total
30 min
Servings
2

Method

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and adding salt.

  2. Trim the tough ends off the squash and use a paring knife to remove any discolored skin. Using a julienne peeler or regular peeler, slice the squash lengthwise, stopping at the seeded part. Repeat on the other sides.

  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Transfer the toasted pecans to a bowl to cool.

  4. To make the pesto, combine the arugula/basil, cooled pecans, Parmesan, garlic, and salt in a food processor. Pulse while drizzling in the olive oil. Stir in the lemon juice and season with freshly ground black pepper.

  5. Cook the pasta in the boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

  6. Slice about 5 tomatoes into thin rounds and set them aside. In a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil and red pepper flakes. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cherry tomatoes and a dash of salt. Cook the tomatoes, stirring occasionally, until they blister and start to pop (about 3 minutes). Lightly crush the tomatoes with the back of a spoon or spatula and continue cooking until they begin to

About this recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta? Look no further than pesto squash noodles and spaghetti with burst cherry tomatoes! This dish is not only packed with flavor, but it's also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Let's dive into the world of these tasty and nutritious noodles!

What are Pesto Squash Noodles?

Imagine a plate full of vibrant and colorful noodles that are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Pesto squash noodles are made by spiralizing fresh squash into thin, spaghetti-like strands. These noodles are then tossed with a flavorful homemade pesto sauce, creating a light and refreshing dish that satisfies your pasta cravings without the guilt.

Why Should You Try Pesto Squash Noodles?

Pesto squash noodles are a fantastic option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake or follow a gluten-free diet. By substituting traditional pasta with squash noodles, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without feeling heavy or bloated afterwards. Plus, squash is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it an excellent addition to any meal.

How to Make Pesto Squash Noodles and Spaghetti with Burst Cherry Tomatoes?

Creating this delicious dish is easier than you might think! Start by spiralizing your squash into noodles using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler. Then, prepare a fresh and vibrant pesto sauce by blending together basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Toss the squash noodles with the pesto sauce and top it off with burst cherry tomatoes for an added burst of flavor. Voila! A simple yet impressive meal is ready to be devoured.

Tips for Perfect Pesto Squash Noodles

1. Choose fresh and firm squash for the best results. 2. Don't overcook the squash noodles to maintain a slightly crunchy texture. 3. Experiment with different herbs and nuts for your pesto sauce to add variety. 4. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to your pesto for a tangy twist. 5. Feel free to customize your dish with additional vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers.

The Burst of Flavor with Cherry Tomatoes

One of the highlights of this dish is the burst cherry tomatoes. When heated, the cherry tomatoes burst, releasing their sweet and juicy flavor. The burst tomatoes add a delightful pop of color and taste to the pesto squash noodles, creating a harmonious combination that will leave you wanting more.

In Conclusion

Pesto squash noodles and spaghetti with burst cherry tomatoes offer a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. By using squash noodles and incorporating burst cherry tomatoes, you can create a vibrant and flavorful meal that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. So why not give it a try and embark on a culinary adventure?

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of squash for the noodles?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of squash, such as zucchini or butternut squash, to create a variety of flavors and textures.

. How do I prevent the squash noodles from becoming too watery?

To prevent watery noodles, sprinkle some salt on the spiralized squash and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently squeeze out the excess moisture before cooking.

. Can I make the pesto sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pesto sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using.

. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the dish more filling and protein-rich.

. Are pesto squash noodles suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan-friendly by using a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or omitting the cheese altogether.

. Can I freeze the pesto sauce?

While it's best to enjoy the pesto sauce fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the pesto cubes to a freezer bag for easy portioning.

. Can I serve this dish cold?

Absolutely! Pesto squash noodles can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile option for picnics or packed lunches.

. Can I use store-bought pesto sauce instead of homemade?

If you're short on time, you can certainly use store-bought pesto sauce. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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