Morel Mushrooms With Butternut Squash Pasta
[Vegan, Grain-Free]

To Make the Pasta:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. If using dried morel mushrooms, place them in a bowl and cover with warm water to rehydrate. Once soft, drain and rinse well. Slice into thin 1/4-inch slices and set aside until ready to use.
3. Next, heat the oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add the shallots and cook until lightly translucent, about 1-2 minutes. Then, add the garlic and reduce heat to low. Allow these to slowly cook until a light golden color before adding the mushrooms.  Stir in the sliced mushrooms and coconut sugar. Continue to stir and cook until lightly caramelized. Add in the sage and salt, and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes. Last, stir in the lemon zest and add the thinly sliced kale, stir until greens lightly wilt. Remove from heat, cover with lid, and set aside while cooking the pasta.
4. Using a vegetable spiralizer, process the prepared squash through the machine to create long noodles. Place in a bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly across a baking sheet, and place in oven to cook for 15 minutes, or until lightly tender but not too soft. Remove from oven and plate the pasta while hot, adding the sautéed mushrooms and kale mixture on top and a dollop of pesto to each prepared plate or bowl. Season with a salt and pepper to taste.

To Make the Pesto:

1. Combine all ingredients, except the oil, in a food processor or blender. Pulse until well combined. Add the oil and pulse again.  Transfer to an airtight glass container and store in your refrigerator until ready to use. Makes 1 cup pesto.