Spaghetti Squash With Pesto And Meatballs

Are you looking for a healthy and delicious meal that is easy to make? Look no further than spaghetti squash with pesto and meatballs! This dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it the perfect dinner for any night of the week. In this article, we will share a step-by-step guide on how to make this tasty meal, along with some tips for making it even more delicious.

What is Spaghetti Squash?

Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that is named for its unique texture. When cooked, the flesh of the squash separates into long, thin strands that resemble spaghetti noodles. This makes it a great alternative to traditional pasta, especially for those who are looking to cut back on carbs or add more vegetables to their diet.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash

There are several ways to cook spaghetti squash, but the easiest method is to bake it in the oven. Here's how:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Brush the inside of each half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Remove the squash from the oven and use a fork to scrape the flesh into long, thin strands.

How to Make Pesto

Pesto is a delicious sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Here's how to make it:

Combine 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup of pine nuts, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a food processor.
Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of olive oil until the pesto is smooth and well-combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Make Meatballs

Meatballs are a classic Italian dish that pair perfectly with spaghetti squash and pesto. Here's how to make them:

Related Spaghetti

Combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley in a bowl.
Mix well with your hands until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.

Putting it All Together: Spaghetti Squash With Pesto and Meatballs

Now that you know how to cook spaghetti squash, make pesto, and make meatballs, it's time to put it all together into a delicious and healthy meal. Here's how:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Cut a spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Brush the inside of each half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
While the squash is baking, make the pesto and meatballs according to the instructions above.
When the squash is done, remove it from the oven and use a fork to scrape the flesh into long, thin strands.
Place the spaghetti squash strands in a large bowl and toss with the pesto until well-coated.
Top the spaghetti squash with the meatballs and serve immediately.

Tips for Making Spaghetti Squash With Pesto and Meatballs

Here are some tips to help you make the best spaghetti squash with pesto and meatballs:

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil, garlic, and parsley will give your pesto and meatballs the best flavor.
Season generously: Don't be afraid to use plenty of salt and pepper to season your squash, pesto, and meatballs.
Get creative: Feel free to experiment with different types of meat or veggies in your meatballs, or add other ingredients to your pesto like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Serve with a salad: Spaghetti squash with pesto and meatballs is a filling meal, but it's always a good idea to add some greens to your plate for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

Spaghetti squash with pesto and meatballs is a delicious and healthy meal that is easy to make at home. By following the steps in this article, you can create a flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you're looking to cut back on carbs, add more veggies to your diet, or simply enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal, give this recipe a try and see how it turns out!