Pumpkin Spinach Walnut Pasta (Printer-Friendly Version)

Delight in roasted pumpkin, spinach, walnuts, and chili blended with gluten-free pasta for a quick, nutritious dish.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Pasta

01 - 7 oz gluten-free spaghetti

→ Vegetables

02 - 15.9 oz cubed butternut squash or pumpkin
03 - 3.5 oz fresh spinach
04 - 2-3 garlic cloves, finely diced
05 - ½ lemon, zest and juice

→ Oils and Seasonings

06 - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed
07 - ½-1 tsp chili flakes
08 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Nuts

09 - 1 oz walnuts, finely chopped

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Toss cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 430°F for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and caramelized.
02 - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic gently, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Add chili flakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes.
03 - Boil spaghetti according to package instructions, cooking 1 minute less than recommended for al dente texture. Drain well.
04 - Mash half of the roasted squash with a fork and add it along with the remaining chunks to the pan with garlic and chili. Stir to combine.
05 - Add drained spaghetti and washed spinach to the pan, mixing gently until spinach wilts and ingredients are evenly combined.
06 - Adjust seasoning with lemon juice, salt, pepper, and extra chili flakes if desired. Drizzle additional olive oil if preferred. Serve immediately topped with chopped walnuts and lemon zest.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Use firm-fleshed pumpkin or butternut squash for the best texture; softer varieties will affect consistency.