Butternut Squash Noodles Recipes Vegetarian and Delicious Ideas

Butternut squash noodles are a fantastic, nutrient-packed alternative to traditional pasta, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a lighter, vegetarian meal without sacrificing flavor or texture. These vibrant, spiralized noodles have a subtle sweetness and tender bite that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces and toppings.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply want to incorporate more veggies into your diet, butternut squash noodles offer a versatile base that can transform any dinner into a colorful, wholesome feast.

In this blog post, we’ll explore three delicious vegetarian butternut squash noodle recipes that are easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to become staples in your kitchen. From a creamy garlic Alfredo to a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dish and a warm autumnal bowl, these recipes showcase the versatility of butternut squash noodles and how they can be tailored to suit your mood and pantry.

Get ready to twirl your fork around some wholesome goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butternut squash noodles are not only visually appealing but also incredibly nutritious. They are naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.

Swapping traditional pasta for these veggie noodles helps reduce carb intake while boosting your vegetable servings for the day.

These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights as they come together quickly without sacrificing taste. Plus, they can be adapted to various dietary preferences — vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are easy to accommodate.

The unique texture of butternut squash noodles holds sauces beautifully, making each bite a delightful blend of flavors.

Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a light lunch, these butternut squash noodles recipes will satisfy your cravings and keep your meals interesting.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds), peeled and spiralized
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for vegan option
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for Mediterranean-style)

Equipment

• Vegetable spiralizer or julienne peeler
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Toaster or small pan for toasting pine nuts
• Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the butternut squash noodles. Carefully peel the butternut squash, cut off the ends, and use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to create noodle-like strands. Place them in a colander to drain excess moisture while you prepare the sauce.
2. Toast pine nuts. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release juice.
4. Add the butternut squash noodles. Toss the noodles into the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring gently, until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
5. Prepare the sauce. For a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. For a lighter option, simply drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
6. Add fresh greens and cheese. If using baby spinach, stir it in now until just wilted. Then sprinkle the grated Parmesan or vegan cheese and toss gently to combine.
7. Garnish and serve. Remove from heat and sprinkle toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, and parsley over the top. Add crumbled feta if desired for the Mediterranean variation. Serve immediately on warm plates.

Tips & Variations

“To avoid watery noodles, always drain your butternut squash strands well and cook them briefly. Overcooking can lead to soggy noodles.”

• For extra protein: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans to the skillet before serving.
• Spice it up: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
• Herb swaps: Try fresh thyme or oregano instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
• Nut alternatives: Use chopped walnuts or almonds if pine nuts are unavailable.
• Vegan cheese: Nutritional yeast makes a great cheesy-tasting topping for a dairy-free version.
• Other sauces: Pair with a homemade tomato sauce or a pesto for tasty variations.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Butternut squash noodles can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. For a hearty vegetarian meal, serve with crusty garlic bread or a crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

These noodles also pair wonderfully with a simple roasted vegetable medley or a light soup like a butternut squash bisque.

For more inspiration, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a fresh pasta alternative or try the Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food to complement your autumn-themed dinner.

If you love dips, the Halibut Dip Recipe offers a delightful appetizer to start your meal.

Conclusion

Butternut squash noodles are a delightful way to elevate your vegetarian cooking with minimal effort. Their natural sweetness and satisfying texture make them a perfect canvas for a range of flavors, from creamy garlic sauces to bright, herbaceous Mediterranean dressings.

These dishes not only provide a healthy alternative to traditional pasta but also bring vibrant color and nutrition to your plate.

Whether you’re aiming for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping meal for guests, butternut squash noodles offer endless possibilities. By incorporating fresh herbs, nuts, and a variety of vegetables, you can easily customize these recipes to suit your taste and dietary needs.

So grab your spiralizer, and start twirling your way to a delicious, wholesome meal today!

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