If you’re looking to add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your dinner table while keeping things on the lighter side, then this recipe for Mediterranean Spaghetti Squash is just what you need. This dish offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, combining the earthy taste of spaghetti squash with the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients typical of Mediterranean cuisine. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious and satisfying meal!
Mediterranean Spaghetti Squash
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Brush the inner flesh of each half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. While the squash is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
6. Once the spaghetti squash is cooked, remove it from the oven and use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands. Add the spaghetti squash strands to the skillet with the tomatoes.
7. Toss in the sliced Kalamata olives and mix well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the spaghetti squash mixture.
9. Garnish with the chopped fresh basil and an extra drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve your Mediterranean Spaghetti Squash warm, and enjoy the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite!
Prepare this dish when you’re in the mood for a light and flavorful meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, briny olives, tangy feta cheese, and fragrant basil perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the spaghetti squash. Plus, the vibrant colors make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. Try it for your next dinner and transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean!
