Lemon and Basil Ricotta Spaghetti Squash

Fresh squeezed lemon and garden picked basil light up this fresh spaghetti squash meal! Drizzled olive oil with a hint of garlic and creamy ricotta cheese accents the nutty flavor of the squash, giving this dish layers of flavor!

Lemony Ricotta Pasta With Basil

I was just waiting for the perfect moment to cook this squash up. The weekend slowed down to a manageable pace where I was able to think clearly for one second. I finally had the perfect moment to create this ultra-simple dish, making sure each ingredient spoke for itself.

Spaghetti squash isn’t the first vegetable to come to mind when it comes to Summer dishes, but it certainly provides the perfect crunch to this dish! The nutty flavor of the spaghetti squash pairs beautifully with the peppery boldness of the fresh basil. A thin coat of olive oil helps spread the ricotta cheese throughout the dish, giving it a smooth and creamy taste.

Chef’s Tips

• Take a peeler, and peel a line around the squash vertically. Use a sharp knife and cut the squash in half.
• Using s sharp knife, poke holes along the squash vertically. Place the squash (one at a time) in the microwave for 5 minutes a piece. Carefully remove from the microwave and cut along the dotted line.
• For those who like a touch of spiciness, you can sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top or integrate some thinly sliced chili peppers into the mix.

How to roast a spaghetti squash:

• Preheat the oven to 400° F.
• Cut the spaghetti squash in half using the tips from above.
• Scoop out the insides of the squash and discard.
• Rub olive oil on the inside of the squash. Sprinkle salt and pepper, then place the squash cut side down on a baking sheet.
• Poke holes in the skin of the squash with a fork.
• Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 30- 40 minutes, or until fork tender. Lager squash will take 40 minutes, or longer. I like my noodles al dente, so 30 minutes seems to be the sweet spot.
• Remove from oven and enjoy!

Why Spaghetti Squash?

Spaghetti squash is a wonderful, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. It is a goldmine of nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Consuming spaghetti squash can help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and support vision health.

Pairing Suggestions:

This dish can be perfectly complemented with a side of garlic bread or a simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. If you’re looking to pair a drink, a light white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would beautifully enhance the flavors.

How to make Lemon and Basil Ricotta Spaghetti Squash:

1. Preheat the oven to 400° F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half, discarding the insides.
2. Place the cut side of the squash down on a baking sheet. Poke holes in the skin with a fork. Bake for 30-40 minutes.
3. When squash is done cooking, shred the squash with a fork, creating the noodles.  Place noodles in a bowl, and toss in the lemon, olive oil, salt, basil, garlic powder, and ricotta. Replate in the squash skin, and mangia!

Ingredients

• 2 spaghetti squashes
• olive oil
• salt
• pepper
• lemon
• basil
• ricotta cheese
• garlic powder

Benefits of Lemon and Basil:

Lemon is not just a tangy fruit; it is loaded with vitamin C, which can rejuvenate the skin, promote weight loss, and aid digestion. Basil, on the other hand, is an excellent source of vitamin K, manganese, iron, and calcium. It’s an anti-inflammatory herb and can help combat stress and act as an adaptogen.

Storage and Leftovers:

If you end up with leftovers, this dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, pop it into the microwave or reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil.

My Pasta Dishes

• Penne au Gratin made easy! This saucy meal is the soul food of all American- Italian food! Spicy Italian sausage is pan seared with peppers and mushrooms, and baked in alla vodka sauce with loads of cheese and penne pasta. This is a fabulous meal to feed a large hungry family!
• This Red Wine Pasta Sauce is full of robust flavors, making this sauce a meal in itself! This simple 10 ingredient sauce will have you swearing off canned sauce for good! Bold red wine, Italian herbs, and a pinch of honey makes this sauce an absolute hit!
• Easy Stuffed Shells With Spinach is a dish that calls for elegant simplicity. Red wine sauce from scratch compliments the herb and spinach ricotta that fills the al dente shells. This is an effortlessly delicious classic!
• This easy, simple ingredient, 20 Minute Creamy Lemon Orzo With Salmon is a fresh tasting meal.  With light hints of lemon and Parmesan cheese, this dinner is satisfyingly delicious.

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