Pumpkin Spinach Walnut Pasta (Printer-Friendly)

Wholesome pasta with roasted pumpkin, spinach, walnuts, garlic, and chilli for a flavorful meal.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 7 oz gluten-free spaghetti

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 cups cubed butternut squash
03 - 3.5 oz fresh spinach
04 - ½ lemon (zest and juice)
05 - 2-3 garlic cloves, finely diced

→ Seasonings and Nuts

06 - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
07 - ½-1 tsp chilli flakes
08 - Salt and pepper, to taste
09 - 1 oz walnuts, finely chopped

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Toss cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in a 430°F oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
02 - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add diced garlic and sauté gently, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Add chilli flakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
03 - Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until one minute less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
04 - Mash half of the roasted butternut squash with a fork. Add both mashed and whole cubes to the garlic and chili oil in the pan, stirring to combine.
05 - Add drained spaghetti and fresh spinach to the pan, folding them into the squash mixture until the spinach wilts.
06 - Season with pepper, lemon juice, salt, and additional chili flakes as desired. Drizzle with extra olive oil if preferred. Serve immediately topped with chopped walnuts and lemon zest.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Using butternut squash is a versatile substitute for pumpkin, providing caramelized sweetness that balances the savory and spicy elements.