A light, low-carb meal packed with fresh flavor. Roasted spaghetti squash tossed with homemade basil pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes. Easy, filling, and ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
For the Spaghetti Squash:
1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts
2 garlic cloves
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: Parmesan shavings or crushed red pepper flakes
Roast the Squash
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the inside with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 35–40 minutes until tender. Let cool, then scrape strands with a fork.
Make the Pesto
In a blender or food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, nuts, and garlic. Blend while slowly adding olive oil until smooth. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust taste as needed.
Cook the Tomatoes
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook 5–6 minutes until they soften and begin to burst.
Combine Everything
Add the squash strands to a pan over low heat. Toss with pesto until coated, then gently mix in tomatoes. Warm through for 1–2 minutes. Serve topped with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired.
You can roast the squash ahead and keep it in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Store leftover pesto in a sealed jar for up to a week, or freeze it in ice cube trays.
Swap pine nuts for walnuts or almonds to save money.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein