3cupsRoma (plum) tomatoes seeded and coarsely chopped
1/2cupWhole30-compatible roasted red peppersdrained and chopped
4clovesgarlicminced
2teaspoonsdried Italian seasoning
1/2teaspoonsalt
1/2teaspoonred pepper flakes
1/2teaspoonfennel seedsfinely crushed (optional)
1/4cupfresh basilchopped
1tablespoonextra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
CUT the squash in half lengthwise. Scrape out the seeds and strings.
PLACE the squash halves, cut sides down, in a 2-quart rectangular microwave-safe baking dish. Add 1/2 cup water to the dish.
MICROWAVE, uncovered, on high until the squash is tender, 14 to 16 minutes. Let the squash stand until cool enough to handle.
MEANWHILE in a large skillet, cook the ground pork, pancetta, and onion over medium-high heat, stirring until the pork is no longer pink. Drain off the fat.
ADD the tomatoes, roasted peppers, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper flakes, and fennel seeds (if using).
COVER and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are softened, 4 to 5 minutes.
UNCOVER and continue to cook, stirring and mashing with a spatula, until the mixture is saucy and well combined, 3 to 4 minutes more. Remove from the heat, and stir in the basil.
USE a fork to scrape the squash flesh into a medium bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil and season lightly with salt, tossing gently to coat.
SPOON the arrabbiata sauce over the squash and serve.
Notes
If fresh tomatoes are not in season, substitute 1 can (28 ounces) Whole30-compatible no-salt-added diced tomatoes.