Spaghetti Squash Pasta with Basil Pesto...

Recipe via Minimalist Baker

Prep time: 10 mins

Cook time: 45 mins

Total time: 55 mins

A simple, 9-ingredient spaghetti squash pasta with sun-dried tomato and basil pesto! A light, plant-based meal that's perfect for fall and winter.

Recipe type: Entrée, Side

Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Serves: 2 as entree, 4 as a side

Ingredients

PASTA

1 large or 2 small spaghetti squash

PESTO

1/4 cup (30 g) raw cashews
1/4 cup (33 g) toasted pine nuts (or raw walnuts)
2 Tbsp (6 g) nutritional yeast
1/4 tsp sea salt, plus more to taste
2 cups (~120 g) fresh basil, packed
3 cloves garlic, minced (1 1/2 Tbsp or 9 g)
3 Tbsp (20 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (if in oil, drain)
1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil

FOR SERVING optional

Toasted pine nuts
Vegan parmesan cheese
Red pepper flakes
Garlic bread

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (204 C) and line a large baking sheet with foil.
Carefully halve spaghetti squash lengthwise using a sharp knife. I find the best way is to pierce the skin with the very tip of the knife and push it all the way through to the other side. Rock the knife back and forth to cut one half all the way through, then repeat on the other side. Use an ice cream scoop (or sharp spoon) to scrape out the seeds and most of the stringy parts.
Brush the interior with oil and sprinkle with a little salt. Place cut-side down on baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes, or until a knife easily pierces the skin and flesh. Remove from oven and set aside.
In the meantime, add cashews, pine nuts, nutritional yeast, and sea salt to a blender or food processor and pulse until a fine meal.
Add basil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and olive oil and puree into a fine paste. If it has trouble mixing, add a bit more oil or hot water (2-3 Tbsp) to help encourage it along. It doesn’t need to be finely pureed, just well-mixed. A bit of texture is a good thing in this dish. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Use a fork to scoop out spaghetti squash into fine strings and divide between serving plates. Top with desired amount of pesto and lightly toss.
Serve with additional toppings as desired (listed above). I prefer red pepper flakes and vegan parmesan cheese.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, though best when fresh. Pasta can be enjoyed hot, chilled, or at room temperature.