Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also bursting with vibrant flavors? Discover the magic of Garlic Lemon Butternut Squash Noodles! This Italian-inspired recipe transforms humble butternut squash into a delightful noodle dish that’s perfect for any occasion. In just 30 minutes, you’ll whip up a healthy, gluten-free meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a light side or a satisfying main course, these noodles are a must-try. Let’s dive into the recipe and unlock a world of taste that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, spiralized
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the butternut squash by washing it thoroughly. Using a spiralizer, turn the butternut squash into noodle-like strands, being careful to avoid the seeded center. Set spiralized squash noodles aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the butternut squash noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the garlic and olive oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender but still maintain a slight crispness.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the noodles, ensuring even distribution. Season with salt and pepper to taste, continuing to toss the noodles to incorporate the seasoning.
- Remove from heat and transfer the garlic lemon butternut squash noodles to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm, as a light side dish or can be enjoyed as a main vegetarian course. Optional: Sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a firm, heavy butternut squash with smooth skin. This ensures you get the best texture and flavor for your noodles.
- Spiralizing Made Easy: If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips or purchase pre-spiralized butternut squash from your local grocery store for convenience.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the noodles while cooking. You want them tender yet still slightly crisp. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so aim for about 5-7 minutes in the skillet.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese right before serving.
- Garnish for Visual Appeal: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip this step for that restaurant-quality presentation!
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. You can also toss in some toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 148kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
