Are you looking for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This spaghetti squash with feta and burst cherry tomatoes recipe is a fantastic option, packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. Forget complicated recipes; this quick dinner idea is ready in under an hour and requires minimal cleanup. This dish is a winner for both healthy meals and those craving delicious dishes. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves, cut-side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Tip: For even cooking, ensure the cut side of the squash is completely flat against the baking sheet.
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes
While the squash is baking, toss the cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a separate baking sheet and roast alongside the squash for the last 20-25 minutes of the squash's baking time. This creates beautifully burst tomatoes bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Once the squash is cooked, let it cool slightly. Using a fork, scrape the squash flesh into strands, resembling spaghetti. In a large bowl, gently toss the spaghetti squash with the roasted tomatoes, remaining olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese.
Tip: Don't overmix the squash; you want to retain some texture.
Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired. This dish is best served warm but tastes excellent at room temperature as well.
Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herbs Galore: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Cheese Please: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or parmesan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the size of the squash and the ingredients used. However, a typical serving offers approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fiber: 8-10g
This easy spaghetti squash recipe with feta and burst cherry tomatoes offers a light yet satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch. It's a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to your preferences, making it a go-to recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Enjoy!