Spaghetti Squash Carbonara Night

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara Night

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara presents a delightful twist on the traditional Italian favorite, substituting pasta with a more nutritious, vegetable-based alternative. The creamy, savory flavors of carbonara combine beautifully with the slightly sweet and nutty taste of spaghetti squash, offering a fulfilling and healthy dining experience. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let's transform a simple squash into a gourmet delight!

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 4 slices of bacon (or pancetta), diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.

2. Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes or until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

3. Cook the Bacon: While the squash is roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet. Add the minced garlic to the grease and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4. 

   Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Combine Ingredients: Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Add the strands to the skillet with the garlic and bacon. Remove the skillet from heat and quickly stir in the egg and cheese mixture, coating the squash. The residual heat will gently cook the eggs and form a creamy sauce. Toss everything to combine.

6. Serve: Divide the Spaghetti Squash Carbonara into bowls, sprinkle with the crispy bacon and chopped parsley, and enjoy immediately.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a nutritious meal rich in vitamins and minerals. Spaghetti squash is a low-calorie, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, providing a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. The dish is also high in protein and calcium thanks to the eggs and Parmesan cheese.

For a well-rounded meal, pair your carbonara with a refreshing side dish or salad. A light arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the carbonara perfectly. Garlic bread or a toasted baguette works well for a bit of indulgent crunch.

When it comes to drinks, a crisp white wine such as a Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, enhancing the creamy and savory flavors of the carbonara. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemon water or apple cider can cleanse the palate and add a refreshing finish to your meal.