Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash Recipe

This baked feta spaghetti squash is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. The spaghetti squash is roasted until tender and then combined with creamy feta cheese, tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a flavorful meal.

The recipe is simple and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner and is suitable for various dietary preferences.

Overview of Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash

Baked feta spaghetti squash is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, offering a healthy and satisfying alternative. This dish highlights the unique texture of spaghetti squash, which, when roasted, transforms into golden strands that mimic pasta.

The combination of creamy feta cheese and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes creates a harmonious blend of flavors. This meal not only pleases the palate but also provides a nutritious option for those seeking lighter fare.

Ingredients That Shine

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. A medium spaghetti squash serves as the base, while a block of feta cheese adds creaminess and depth. The halved cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness that complements the savory feta.

Seasonings like garlic and oregano enhance the overall flavor profile, while olive oil ensures a rich, satisfying texture. Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds a refreshing touch, making the dish visually appealing and aromatic.

Preparation Steps

Preparing baked feta spaghetti squash is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). The spaghetti squash is then cut in half, and the seeds are scooped out, creating a vessel for the other ingredients.

Drizzling the squash with olive oil and seasoning it with salt and pepper sets the stage for roasting. The feta cheese and cherry tomatoes are arranged in the center and around the squash, respectively, ready to absorb the flavors as they bake.

Baking to Perfection

The baking process is where the magic happens. Roasting the squash for about 40-45 minutes allows it to become tender while the feta cheese turns golden and slightly caramelized. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavors that define the dish.

Once baked, the squash is scraped into strands using a fork, creating a pasta-like texture. This step is not only fun but also essential for mixing the ingredients seamlessly.

Combining Flavors

After the squash is shredded, it’s time to combine it with the baked feta and tomatoes. Tossing these ingredients together in a large bowl ensures that every strand of squash is coated with the creamy feta and juicy tomatoes.

Adjusting the seasoning at this stage allows for a personalized touch, ensuring that the dish meets individual taste preferences. The final garnish of fresh herbs adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Baked feta spaghetti squash is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, making it a versatile option for various occasions. It can be served on its own or paired with a side salad for a more substantial meal.

This dish is not only visually appealing but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diners. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress, whether enjoyed at home or shared with friends and family.

Easy Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Baked feta spaghetti squash with cherry tomatoes and basil on a rustic table.

This dish features roasted spaghetti squash tossed with baked feta cheese and cherry tomatoes, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 8 oz feta cheese block
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Arrange Ingredients: Place the squash halves cut side up on a baking sheet. In the center of each half, place the block of feta cheese and scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around it. Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic and oregano.
  4. Bake: Roast in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the feta is golden.
  5. Shred the Squash: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the spaghetti squash into strands.
  6. Combine: In a large bowl, combine the spaghetti squash strands, baked feta, and tomatoes. Toss gently to mix everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy your healthy baked feta spaghetti squash!

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 220kcal
  • Fat: 15g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g

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