Butternut Squash Spaghetti With Tomato Sauce
Do you love pasta, but want a healthier alternative? Look no further than butternut squash spaghetti! This delicious and nutritious dish is a great way to enjoy your favorite comfort food while still being mindful of your health. Not only is butternut squash low in calories and high in fiber, but it also contains plenty of vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy body. Paired with a tasty tomato sauce, this dish makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal that you'll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
To make butternut squash spaghetti with tomato sauce, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 butternut squash
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make butternut squash spaghetti with tomato sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and pulp.
- Place the squash halves face down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
- While the squash is baking, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the can of crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano to the saucepan and stir well.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the squash into spaghetti-like strands and add them to the tomato sauce.
- Stir the squash and sauce together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Health Benefits
Butternut squash is a great source of vitamins A and C, both of which are important for supporting a healthy immune system. It's also high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied after meals. Additionally, the lycopene in tomatoes has been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer and heart disease. By incorporating these nutritious ingredients into your diet, you can support your overall health and wellbeing.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your tastes and preferences. For example, you could:
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use a different type of squash, such as spaghetti squash or acorn squash, instead of butternut squash.
- Top the dish with grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Serve the spaghetti with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a more well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Butternut squash spaghetti with tomato sauce is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. By swapping out refined flour noodles for nutrient-rich squash, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that's packed with vitamins, fiber, and flavor. Whether you're looking to eat more vegetables, reduce your calorie intake, or simply try something new, this recipe is a great place to start.
