One of my absolute favorites is Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti Squash. This dish combines the mild flavor of spaghetti squash with a rich, creamy sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. It's not only delicious but also a healthy low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for cozy fall evenings!
Ingredients
To make this creamy Tuscan spaghetti squash, you will need the following ingredients:
1 medium spaghetti squash
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, minced
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup half & half (or cream for a richer sauce)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 1/2 cups fresh spinach
10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Grocery List
When shopping for this recipe, be sure to include:
Spaghetti squash
Garlic
Shallots
Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
Italian seasoning
Oregano
Salt and black pepper
Half & half or heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Fresh spinach
Fresh basil
Mozzarella cheese
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to create your creamy Tuscan spaghetti squash:
Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 40 minutes, or until tender.
Make the Sauce:
While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add a splash of olive oil, then sauté the minced garlic and shallot until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour in the half & half (or cream) and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
Combine Ingredients:
Once the spaghetti squash is done roasting, carefully scrape out the strands with a fork.
Add the spaghetti squash strands to the skillet with the sauce.
Fold in fresh spinach and basil until wilted.
Serve:
Transfer your creamy Tuscan spaghetti squash to plates or bowls.
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves about 4 people. Here’s an approximate breakdown of calories per serving:
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 25g
Tips and Notes
For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or shrimp.
If you're looking for a vegan option, substitute half & half with coconut milk and skip the cheese or use vegan alternatives.
Feel free to adjust the amount of sun-dried tomatoes based on your taste preference; they add a lovely tangy sweetness.
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Embrace fall flavors with this creamy Tuscan spaghetti squash that brings warmth and comfort to your table! 🍃✨