Friend of Julie: Squash Carbonara

Here's another Trader Joe's recipe. I'm on a roll here. This veggie dish looks delicious and would be perfect with any of your favorite meats.

Squash Carbonara

Cooking Time: 30 - 40 Minutes

Ingredients

• 1/2 large Spaghetti Squash
• 3 slices Bacon, cut into moderate-sized bits
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, cubed
• 3/4 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese

Cook the squash: 

1. Use a sharp knife to cut squash in half lengthwise. 
2. Use a large table spoon to scrape out the seeds and string. 
3. Season with salt and pepper, place cut side up in a microwave safe dish and add about an inch of water to the bottom of the dish. 
4. Cover dish with cling wrap and microwave on high for 8-10 minutes. 
5. Allow to cool enough to handle before unwrapping. 
6. Use a table fork to scrape squash from top to bottom to separate flesh into strands of "spaghetti." 

Prepare Sauce: 

1. Cook bacon in large skillet until crisp. 
2. Remove from skillet with slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel. 
3. Pour off bacon drippings. 
4. Add garlic to pan and sauté until opaque, about 1 minute. 
5. Add milk, cream cheese and peas; simmer over very low heat until cream cheese is melted and mixture is well blended and heated through. 
6. Add more milk if too thick. 
7. Add squash and bacon; toss to coat. 
8. Sprinkle on Parmesan cheese and serve right away.