Tomato Kabocha Pasta

  

A Nutrient-Packed Comfort Food

Craving a delicious, creamy, and weeknight-friendly pasta dish that packs a nutritional punch? Look no further! This Tomato Kabocha Squash Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, made from a few simple yet incredibly tasty ingredients. It's the perfect meal for those busy evenings when you want something comforting and nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich, velvety sauce and vibrant colors, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Just try it once, and you won’t be disappointed!

Recipe video:

The Health Benefits of Kabocha Squash and Tomatoes

Kabocha Squash: Kabocha squash, often referred to as Japanese pumpkin, is a nutritional powerhouse. It's rich in vitamins A and C, both essential for a healthy immune system. The high fiber content aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making it great for weight management. Additionally, kabocha squash contains beta-carotene, which is good for eye health and has antioxidant properties that help protect your body from free radicals.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes are another health-boosting ingredient in this dish. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K. Tomatoes are also rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. Their anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce chronic inflammation and promote overall health.

Pasta: While pasta is often thought of as a comfort food, it also has its nutritional benefits. Whole grain pasta, in particular, is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing steady energy. It's also high in fiber and can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Additionally, pasta is a great source of iron and B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and brain function.

Ingredients:

Recipe: Tomato Kabocha Squash Pasta

Ingredients:

• 300 g kabocha squash
• 1 white onion
• 3 small carrots
• 1 medium bell pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh basil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 4 medium tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 3 cups pasta water
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 400 g linguine

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Peel and cube the kabocha squash.
• Dice the white onion, carrots, and bell pepper.
• Mince the garlic.
• Chop the tomatoes and fresh basil.

2. Cook the Pasta:

• In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the linguine.
• Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions.
• Reserve 3 cups of pasta water before draining the pasta.

3. Make the Sauce:

• In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
• Add the carrots, bell pepper, and kabocha squash. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
• Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down.
• Add the tomato sauce, fresh basil, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Serve:

• Add the reserved pasta water to the sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
• Toss the cooked linguine into the sauce, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
• Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh basil if desired.

Conclusion

This vegetarian pasta is not only vibrant and comforting but also a brilliant way to camouflage veggies in your pasta sauce! It’s a plant-based delight from my friend, @cyclingchefglenn. Surprisingly, even without meat, this dish is incredibly delicious. Give it a try, and your taste buds will thank you!

A Special Thanks

A big thank you to my friend, @cyclingchefglenn, for allowing me to share his wonderful recipe. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!

Happy cooking!