Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash

If you’re looking for a cozy, healthy dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor, then you’ll love this Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash recipe! It’s the perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you want something nourishing yet easy to prepare. Plus, it’s vegan, Whole30, and paleo-friendly, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

This dish is special to me because it combines simple ingredients into a vibrant meal that feels indulgent without the heaviness. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this spaghetti squash is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The roasted garlic adds a rich depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the earthy kale.
• Nutrient-Packed: With wholesome ingredients like kale and walnuts, this dish is full of vitamins and healthy fats.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the spaghetti squash in advance, making meal prep a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: It’s a fun twist on pasta that kids will enjoy, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You might already have most of them in your pantry!

• 1 roasted spaghetti squash (roasted)
• 1 small head kale (chopped)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• 1/3 cup raw walnuts
• 1 bulb garlic
• 1/2 tsp sea salt (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add more greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or Swiss chard along with the kale for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the skillet while cooking for a little kick.
• Incorporate different nuts: Swap out walnuts for pine nuts or pecans based on your preference.
• Try different veggies: Add roasted bell peppers or zucchini to vary the flavor profile.

How to Make Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash and Garlic

First things first! You’ll want to roast your spaghetti squash until it’s tender. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness. To roast garlic, cut off the top of the bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and place it alongside the squash in the oven. The garlic will become creamy and aromatic as it roasts!

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

Once your spaghetti squash and garlic are done roasting, let them cool just enough to handle. Use a fork to scrape out those lovely strands of spaghetti squash into a large bowl. Don’t forget to chop up the roasted garlic cloves; they’ll add incredible flavor!

Step 3: Cook the Kale

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and toss in your chopped kale. Cover it up and let it cook until wilted—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Cooking kale like this softens its texture and enhances its flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time for the fun part! Add your sun-dried tomatoes along with the spaghetti squash strands, roasted garlic, and walnuts into the skillet with kale. Stir everything together until well combined. This step ensures all those delightful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, sprinkle sea salt to taste over your dish. If you’re feeling fancy or want a little zing, drizzle some lemon juice over everything before serving. Enjoy your deliciously healthy Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash—it’s truly comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash

Creating a delicious Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:

• Roast with Care: Ensure that your spaghetti squash is evenly roasted by cutting it in half lengthwise, seeding it, and placing it cut-side down on the baking sheet. This helps achieve that perfect tender texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and kale when possible. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavors but also provide the best nutritional benefits, making your meal healthier.
• Customize Your Nuts: While walnuts add a delightful crunch, feel free to substitute with pecans or pine nuts for a different flavor profile. This keeps the dish interesting and allows you to personalize it.
• Experiment with Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors significantly. Adding citrus not only enhances taste but also complements the richness of roasted garlic.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Make a larger batch for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week—just reheat and enjoy!

How to Serve Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash

Serving your Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to present this healthy meal in style.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy flavor without dairy, sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top before serving. It’s packed with nutrients too!
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to give your dish an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Simple Arugula Salad: A light salad made with fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this dish. The peppery arugula contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the squash.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and additional nutrition to your plate while keeping things simple and healthy.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs creates a lovely grain side that complements the flavors of your spaghetti squash while adding protein.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper make for a deliciously crunchy side that balances out the soft texture of the spaghetti squash.

Enjoy creating this wholesome meal that’s sure to impress family and friends while keeping health in mind!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and can be easily reheated, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or for those looking to have healthy meals ready in advance.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep the spaghetti squash in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, separate the sauce from the squash to maintain texture when reheating.

Freezing

• Portion out the spaghetti squash into freezer-safe containers.
• Label containers with the date and contents before freezing.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just remember to reheat thoroughly.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions; cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in.
• Adding a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice while reheating can enhance flavors.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the spaghetti squash and garlic ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to combine everything.

What should I serve with Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash?

This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I know when my spaghetti squash is done roasting?

You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily pierce the skin with a fork, and it feels tender. It typically takes about 40-50 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Can I use other greens instead of kale?

Yes! Feel free to substitute kale with other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti Squash recipe as I was to share it! This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your dinner repertoire. Enjoy creating this comforting meal and savoring each bite. Happy cooking!