Name: Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash: 7 Delightful Reasons to Try
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 medium spaghetti squash (halved lengthwise and seeded); 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; kosher salt and black pepper (to taste); 1/2 tsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 2-3 garlic cloves (minced); pinch of chili flakes (optional for heat); 4 oz feta cheese (divided into 2 blocks); fresh basil (sliced for garnish)

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?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked is a delightful and lighter twist on the viral baked feta pasta that took social media by storm. This recipe utilizes tender roasted spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta, offering a wholesome yet delicious alternative. With its Mediterranean flavors and creamy feta cheese, this dish will not only satisfy your taste buds but also become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to learn how to make it? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked

This scrumptious dish is perfect for anyone looking for healthier meal options. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked:

It’s a fantastic gluten-free dish, ideal for those with dietary restrictions.
Made with simple ingredients, it’s a great recipe for beginners in baking.
Versatile and customizable, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or spices.
Provides a great source of vitamins and nutrients from the spaghetti squash.
Quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for easy baked meals for dinner.
Offers a wonderful balance of savory and creamy flavors without excess calories.
Perfect for meal prep, helping you stay on track with healthy eating.

Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash: 7 Delightful Reasons to Try - ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked - main visual representation

Ingredients for ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked

Gather these items:

1 medium spaghetti squash (halved lengthwise and seeded)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
1/2 tsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika
1 cup cherry tomatoes
2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
pinch of chili flakes (optional for heat)
4 oz feta cheese (divided into 2 blocks)
fresh basil (sliced for garnish)

How to Make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 F. Wash spaghetti squash, cut in half, and use a spoon to scrape out and discard seeds. If needed, poke a few holes in squash and place in the microwave for 3-5 minutes prior to cutting it in half lengthwise.
Step 2: Place the halved and seeded spaghetti squash cut-side up on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 3: Divide the cherry tomatoes between the two squash halves. Sprinkle with minced garlic and chili flakes, then drizzle with a little more olive oil.
Step 4: Nestle a wedge of feta into the center of each squash half and season with freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 5: Transfer to the oven and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender, the tomatoes are blistered, and the feta is soft and lightly golden.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Using a fork, scrape the inside of the squash to create spaghetti-like strands, mixing everything together directly in the squash shells. The feta will melt into the tomatoes and olive oil, creating a creamy, sauce-like coating.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh chopped basil. Serve warm, directly in the squash boats or transfer to a serving bowl.

Pro Tips for the Best ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked

Keep these in mind:

Always choose a ripe spaghetti squash for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the seasoning; it brings out the natural flavors of the squash.
If you want to add more protein, consider adding cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken.
For a spicy kick, increase the amount of chili flakes.

Best Ways to Serve ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked

This dish can be served in various ways:

Serve it as a main course alongside a fresh salad for a light dinner.
Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious feta and tomato sauce.
Top with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

How to Store and Reheat ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked

What’s the secret to perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked?

The key to perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked is ensuring that the squash is cooked until fork-tender and the feta is slightly golden. This creates a wonderful texture and flavor blend.

Can I make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the squash and toppings ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you season adequately and check the doneness of the squash before removing it from the oven. Under-cooked squash will not yield the desired texture.

Variations of ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=baked You Can Try

For a twist on this recipe, consider the following variations:

Swap the feta for goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
Incorporate different spices like Italian seasoning or lemon zest for a unique taste.

For more healthy meal ideas, check out last recipes or bake chocolate oatmeal bars. If you’re interested in meal prep, consider Thanksgiving green bean casserole for a delicious side dish.