
Sweet Potato Spaghetti Squash with Maple-Pecan Drizzle
The Versatile Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash, a winter squash variety, gets its name from its unique flesh that separates into spaghetti-like strands when cooked. It's a low-calorie and nutrient-rich alternative to traditional pasta, making it a popular choice for health-conscious eaters. Its mild flavor makes it incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of sauces and toppings.
Sweet Potato and Fall Flavors
This recipe elevates the humble spaghetti squash by combining it with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. The earthiness of the sweet potato complements the squash beautifully, creating a delightful flavor profile. The addition of a maple-pecan drizzle adds a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch, making it a truly memorable dish.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting Vegetables
Roasting is a fantastic way to bring out the natural sweetness of vegetables. The high heat caramelizes the sugars, creating a depth of flavor that is hard to achieve with other cooking methods. In this recipe, both the spaghetti squash and sweet potato are roasted to perfection.
Making a Drizzle
A drizzle is a simple sauce that adds a finishing touch to a dish. In this case, the maple-pecan drizzle is made by combining maple syrup, pecans, and a touch of butter. The warm, sweet, and nutty flavors complement the vegetables perfectly.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- 1.Prepare the squash and sweet potato
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the cut sides of the spaghetti squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss the cubed sweet potato with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
- 2.Roast the squash and sweet potato
Place the spaghetti squash cut-side down on a baking sheet. Spread the sweet potato cubes in a single layer on the same baking sheet. Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the sweet potato is easily pierced with a fork.
- 3.Make the maple-pecan drizzle
While the squash and sweet potato are roasting, prepare the drizzle. In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans.
- 4.Assemble and serve
Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Toss the spaghetti squash with the roasted sweet potato cubes. Drizzle with the maple-pecan sauce and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large knife
- Fork
- Small saucepan
Tips
- To easily cut the spaghetti squash, microwave it for 2-3 minutes before cutting.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
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