Looking for a healthy yet satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any meal? This Spaghetti Squash with Asparagus, Ricotta, Lemon, and Thyme is light, refreshing, and full of vibrant ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you’re seeking a lower-carb alternative to pasta or simply want to enjoy the deliciousness of seasonal produce, this recipe is for you!
### Ingredients:
– 1 large spaghetti squash
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup asparagus, chopped
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
### Directions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. **Prepare and Roast the Squash**
Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the squash halves face down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
3. **Cook the Asparagus**
While the squash is roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Next, toss in the chopped asparagus and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it’s tender-crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves.
4. **Scrape the Squash**
Once the spaghetti squash is fully roasted, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Use a fork to gently scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
5. **Combine the Ingredients**
In a large bowl, mix the spaghetti squash strands with the cooked asparagus, ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined and coated in the lemony ricotta.
6. **Serve and Garnish**
Transfer the mixture to a serving dish. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for an extra touch of richness. Garnish with additional thyme leaves for a fresh, aromatic finish.
### Enjoy!
This dish is both hearty and refreshing, making it perfect for a light dinner or lunch. The creamy ricotta and zesty lemon elevate the naturally sweet flavors of the squash, while the asparagus adds a tender crunch. For a little extra indulgence, the Parmesan brings a savory, nutty touch.
**Nutritional Information:**
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Calories: 210 kcal per serving
This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, all while being nutritious. Enjoy this Spaghetti Squash with Asparagus, Ricotta, Lemon, and Thyme as a satisfying, healthy option for your next meal!
