Let's get RAW!!
Eating healthy shouldn't mean you need to give up your favorite foods. This Italian favorite is just as delicious raw, light and easily digestible! Time to get started!
Ingredients:
For the “Pasta”:
• 2 medium zucchini (or yellow squash), spiralized or julienned
For the Sauce:
• 4-5 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (soaked in water for 15-20 minutes if dry)
• 1 clove garlic
• 2-3 fresh basil leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried basil)
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
• 1-2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)
• Pinch of black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Faux Walnut Pumpkin Seed Meat:
• 2 1/2 cups walnuts
• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onions
For Garnish:
• Fresh basil leaves
• Cracked black pepper
• Nutritional yeast or crushed nuts (optional for a “parmesan” effect)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
Use a spiralizer, julienne peeler, or even a regular peeler to create thin, noodle-like strips from the zucchini. Set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh tomatoes, red bell pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and olive oil (if using). Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning to your taste.
3. Prepare the Faux Meat:
In a food processor or high-powered blender, add the walnuts, pumpkin seeds, diced peppers, and onions. Pulse until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles a meaty texture. Be careful not to over-process into a paste.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Toss the zucchini noodles with the sauce until well-coated. Layer or sprinkle the faux walnut pumpkin seed meat over the noodles.
5. Serve:
Plate the spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil, cracked black pepper, and nutritional yeast or crushed nuts for extra flavor.
