cheesy roasted garlic spaghetti squash with spinach
Natisha Amoruso
Ingredients
- Spaghetti Squash
- Olive Oil
- Cloves of Garlic (Roasted)
- Fresh Spinach
- Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for added spice)
- Fresh Parsley (Chopped, for garnish)
- Nutritional Yeast (For vegan cheesy flavor)
Steps
### Cheesy Roasted Garlic Spaghetti Squash with Spinach Recipe
#### **Introduction**
Cheesy Roasted Garlic Spaghetti Squash with Spinach is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pasta dishes. This recipe combines the tender strands of spaghetti squash with roasted garlic and fresh spinach, all tossed in a creamy sauce for an unforgettable meal that's perfect for any season.
#### **Ingredients**
- 1 large spaghetti squash
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, chopped parsley
#### **Cooking Steps**
**Step 1: Preparing the Spaghetti Squash**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
**Step 2: Roasting the Garlic**
1. Peel the garlic cloves, leaving them whole.
2. Place the garlic cloves around the squash halves or between the halves if you’re stacking them for easier handling during roasting.
3. Drizzle olive oil over both the squash and the garlic cloves, ensuring they are well coated.
**Step 3: Baking**
1. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes to an hour until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then use a fork to scrape out the flesh and cut it into spaghetti-like strands.
**Step 4: Cooking the Spinach**
1. While the squash is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add some olive oil if necessary.
2. Add the spinach leaves and sauté for about 2 minutes until wilted but still slightly crisp.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**Step 5: Combining Ingredients**
1. In a separate pan, melt a small amount of butter over low heat.
2. Add the spaghetti squash strands to the pan, tossing them in the melted butter to coat.
3. Mix in the spinach leaves along with any remaining garlic cloves (if desired).
4. Stir until well combined and heated through.
**Step 6: Topping and Serving**
1. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the spaghetti squash mixture.
2. Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick, or sprinkle chopped parsley for a pop of color.
3. Serve immediately while everything is still warm and delicious.
#### **Tips & Variations**
- For added flavor, you can add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini.
- Substitute different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
- If using pre-cooked spaghetti squash, adjust the roasting time accordingly.
#### **Conclusion**
This Cheesy Roasted Garlic Spaghetti Squash with Spinach is not only a fantastic way to enjoy a creamy pasta-like dish but also offers a healthier alternative that's easy on the waistline. Perfect for vegetarians and those looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing flavor, this recipe can easily become a favorite in your meal rotation.