Once a month, I get together with my girlfriends for dinner and a movie, and this is one of our favorite dishes. Whether it’s a chick-flick or classic film, this pasta is always a perfect co-star!

SPAGHETTI SQUASH WITH PESTO SAUCE RECIPE

(Serves 4)

INGREDIENTS

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 c fresh basil
• 1/2 avocado
• 1/3 c pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS

1. Bring large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Cut spaghetti squash in quarters and remove seeds.
3. Place in pot for 20 minutes or until tender. Remove and allow it to cool enough to handle.
4. Using a fork, remove the inside of the squash in long, thin strands.
5. Place squash in a bowl.
6. Combine remaining ingredients in food processor and process until smooth.
7. Add squash and mix well.
8. Add salt and pepper to taste and let your taste buds do the happy dance!

TIPS/SUBSTITUTIONS

• Spaghetti squash can be tough to cut due to its thick skin; however, it cooks much faster when you cut it into small quarters.
• You can also just cut the spaghetti squash in half, place open sides down in a baking pan with two inches of water, and bake for 30-40 minutes. This is a great way to make it in advance or let it cook while you’re off doing something else.
• If you’d like, you can substitute walnuts for pine nuts.
• If you don’t have an avocado, you can use 1/3 c olive oil instead.

The combination of spaghetti squash and pine nuts provides a major source of omega-3 fatty acids. This means glowing skin, hair, and nails thanks to the moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and strengthening components of this nutrient.

Omega-3s can even stimulate hair growth so you can get the long, lush locks you’ve always dreamed of!

Want more healthy, delicious recipes? Give this Chickpea Curry Comfort Recipe a try!