Thursday, February 24, 2011

Spaghetti Squash with Pesto and Tomatoes

This was a nice change from the spaghetti squash we usually have on the side. The kind I always make, marinara sauce, or buttered. Wanted to try something new. The kids aren't overly fond of spaghetti squash, but they'll eat it, I like it and the Griller loves it, so once in a while it's on the menu. I draw the line at Lima beans, he loves them, not me, not the kids. Not making them. Ever. He's fine with that. I did finally come around to asparagus and once in a while I do love it, roasted mostly.

So anyway, I googled "spaghetti squash" recipes and found this one at Gina's Skinny Recipes. Double bonus, I don't mind a skinny recipe! This time I had to use what was on hand and had to adapt! So I cheated a bit and used a Knorr's packet of pesto. hey, I'm big on spur of the moment cooking, had no fresh basil here in the middle of this frozen land in Suburbia, and I wasn't bundling up to run to the store. Knorr's pesto is really good.  If I had pine nuts, I'd have sprinkled some on top! But I wasn't running out. Next time. And there will be a next time. It was really good.




Spaghetti Squash Pesto with Tomatoes
Source: original recipe, Gina's Weight Watcher Recipes
adapted There's Always Thyme to Cook
Printable Recipe

1 spaghetti squash
salt and fresh pepper
2 tomatoes, diced
Parmesan, for serving

For the Pesto (or you can use your favorite Pesto sauce)
1 cup, packed, large fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic
1/3 cup olive oil
4 tablespoons Parmesan
handful of pine nuts or walnuts (optional)

Cut squash in half lengthwise; remove seeds. Place squash cut sides up in a microwave dish with 1/4 cup water. Cover and cook on high for about 15 minutes, more or less, depending on size of squash. Add more cooking time if necessary. Let stand covered, for 5 minutes. It will be very hot, be careful!  With a fork pull out and separate the strands.

In a small blender combine basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper and puree until smooth. If you like pine nuts or walnuts, you can add them.

Combine the pesto (as much, or as less as you like) with the spaghetti squash. Add the tomatoes and season with additional salt and pepper. Serve with Parmesan cheese. And top with pine nuts if you like.

Make ahead - you can prepare the squash ahead of time, heat it when ready to use!

22 comments:

  1. I'm amazed. I had spaghetti squash last night for supper. I cooked a dish some what similar. Great minds think alike. Your dish looks delicious.

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  2. I've never had spaghetti squach with pesto but I think I am going to soon. This look like a wonderfdul combination Carol. It's really amazing.

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  3. I can't wait to try this one!! I've never found a spaghetti squash recipe I really love. This one could be it!!! Thanks for another great recipe.

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  4. This is really lovely. I have to try this. I love spaghetti squash but have never flavored mine in this way. I hope you have a great day. Blessings...Mary

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  5. I eat spaghetti squash all the time! It's a favorite. But I sure never thought to mix pesto in. Great idea, Carol!

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  6. You know, I've never cooked spaghetti squash. It's something I'll have to try, especially with pesto.

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  7. I am so glad to hear I am not the only one that thinks lima beans are disgusting!
    Spaghetti squash with pesto sounds delicious.

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  8. I am not too familiar with spaghetti squash; will have to get one and try this perefct healthy recipe; sounds so good.
    Rita

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  9. I love spaghetti squash and this recipe looks delicious! Thanks for sharing!

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  10. My daughter makes this and I have tried it too. It is very good!

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  11. The first time I had spaghetti squash, it was so bland and awful that I vowed never to have it again. But with LOTS of pesto, I think I'd give it another shot. :)

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  12. I love this picture but I loathe squash. So although the colours are very attractive, I'm not going to try this. Hey, is this American food? Or Italian American?

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  13. I think this might be my favorite way to eat spaghetti squash. I will have to give it a try to be sure. I love pesto!

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  14. I have never eaten spaguetti squash. This one with the pesto sounds like perfect to me!

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  15. This is a favorite in our house! But, I have never microwaved it, I usually wait out the whole time it's in the oven. I am definitely trying this next time, thanks!

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  16. Family never cared much for squash so didn't make it. Looks good!!

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  17. 3 on the nix for lima beans, and beans of any kind!
    I do like spaghetti squash though!

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  18. Carol, this looks so great. I have to try it.

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  19. Hi Carol! I have never tried spaghetti squash...and now I am curious! Thanks for the skinny recipe! I need that! Happy weekend!...hugs...Debbie

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  20. 1/3 of a cup of olive oil?

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    Replies
    1. Yes, cup! Thank you! I didn't realize I left it out!

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