Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash

Introduction

Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash is a delightful dish that combines the creamy, tangy taste of baked feta cheese with the naturally sweet and nutty flavor of spaghetti squash. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a flavorful, low-carb, and wholesome meal packed with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean-inspired dishes or just love experimenting with unique ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

– 1 medium spaghetti squash
– 1 block (8 oz) of feta cheese
– 1 pint of cherry or grape tomatoes
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Prep Time

Preparing this meal is relatively straightforward and requires minimal effort, but the results are worth every minute spent in the kitchen. You’ll need roughly 15 minutes to prep everything and get the dish ready for baking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

– Cook Time: 40-45 minutes.
– Total Time: About 1 hour, including prep.
– Yield: Serves 4.

This recipe offers a beautiful combination of creamy textures and bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors—give it a try today and savor every bite!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the spaghetti squash and feta.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Lightly drizzle olive oil on the squash and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.

Step 3: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

Place the prepared squash in the preheated oven and roast for about 35-40 minutes or until the flesh becomes tender and easy to scrape with a fork.

Step 4: Prepare the Feta and Tomatoes

While the spaghetti squash is roasting, place a block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish. Surround the feta with whole cherry or grape tomatoes. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the feta and tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano, and stir gently to coat the tomatoes.

Step 5: Bake the Feta and Tomatoes

Once the spaghetti squash is halfway through roasting, place the baking dish with the feta and tomatoes into the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the feta is melted.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients

Remove the roasted squash from the oven and use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Set it aside. Take the baked feta and tomatoes out of the oven and stir together, breaking up the feta to create a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Assemble the Dish

Add the spaghetti squash strands into the creamy feta and tomato mixture. Mix well until everything is coated evenly. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or oregano, if necessary.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the baked feta spaghetti squash to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Note 1: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add more salt, pepper, or spices if necessary.

Note 2: Tomato Options

You can use cherry, grape, or even small diced fresh tomatoes for this dish. Adjust the quantity to match your preference.

Note 3: Feta Substitution

If feta cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese or ricotta for a similar creamy texture.

Note 4: Additional Garnishes

For added flavor and presentation, garnish the dish with freshly chopped herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme just before serving.

Note 5: Vegan Option

To make this dish vegan, substitute the feta cheese with a vegan alternative and ensure the other ingredients are plant-based.

Note 6: Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
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Cook techniques

Preparing the Spaghetti Squash

To prepare the spaghetti squash, slice it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy center, leaving the squash halves clean and ready for roasting.

Roasting the Spaghetti Squash

Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven until the flesh becomes tender. This usually takes about 30-50 minutes, depending on the size.

Mixing Feta and Tomatoes

Place a block of feta cheese on a baking dish and surround it with grape tomatoes. Drizzle the combination with olive oil, and optionally sprinkle it with spices like garlic powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to increase flavor.

Baking Feta and Tomatoes

Bake the dish in the oven until the feta becomes creamy and the tomatoes burst. This step enhances the sauce’s flavor and makes it easier to mix.

Combining Ingredients

After the spaghetti squash is roasted, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands into the feta and tomato mixture. Thoroughly mix to combine the squash with the creamy sauce, ensuring every strand is coated evenly.

FAQ

What is spaghetti squash?

Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash. When cooked, its inside flesh separates into stringy, spaghetti-like strands, making it a popular low-carb alternative to pasta.

What type of feta cheese should I use?

Use a block of feta cheese, preferably packed in brine as it tends to be creamier and blends better into the dish compared to pre-crumbled feta.

How do you know when the spaghetti squash is cooked?

You’ll know the spaghetti squash is cooked when you can easily pierce the skin with a fork, and the flesh separates easily into strands with a fork.

Can you add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to increase the protein content of the meal.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to eat.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, because spaghetti squash is used instead of traditional pasta, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines unique flavors and textures. It’s a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta meals, while still being incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe brings together wholesome ingredients to create a flavorful and enjoyable dish. Give it a try and discover a delightful way to enjoy spaghetti squash!

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