Paleo Spaghetti Squash With Meat Sauce
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious meal that is also paleo-friendly? Look no further than spaghetti squash with meat sauce! This dish is a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes and is packed with flavor and nutrients.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that, when cooked, has a stringy texture that resembles spaghetti. It is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great substitute for traditional pasta. Spaghetti squash is also gluten-free and paleo-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
For the spaghetti squash:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the meat sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
3. Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. While the squash is cooking, make the meat sauce. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
6. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
7. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
9. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into long, thin strands. Divide the squash between four plates and top each serving with a generous helping of meat sauce.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is healthy for several reasons. First, spaghetti squash is low in calories and high in nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. It is also gluten-free and paleo-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
The meat sauce is also healthy, as it is made with lean ground beef and contains plenty of vegetables, including onions and garlic. The sauce is also seasoned with Italian seasoning, which is a blend of herbs that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Final Thoughts
Overall, spaghetti squash with meat sauce is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for anyone looking for a paleo-friendly alternative to traditional pasta dishes. It is easy to make and packed with flavor and nutrients. Give it a try and see for yourself!