Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash with Garlicky Cherry Tomatoes


Ingredients:

1 large spaghetti squash (about 4 pounds)

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

3/4 teaspoon sea salt, divided

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 teaspoons balsamic or red wine vinegar

1 (10-ounce) container cherry tomatoes

2 large garlic cloves, extra-thinly sliced

Pinch of hot pepper flakes

1 (8-ounce) block feta cheese, halved or quartered lengthwise

1/4 teaspoon coarsely cracked black pepper (optional)

2 tablespoons pine nuts, pan-toasted (optional)

1 handful small fresh basil leaves

 

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut the spaghetti squash in

half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. (Hint: Reserve the seeds for toasting for

other use, if you like.)

 

2. Brush the cut squash surfaces and cavities with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle

with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and the ground black pepper. Place cut side down on a

silicone mat- or parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast 25 minutes (it will

only be partially cooked).

 

3. Meanwhile, in a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, remaining 2

tablespoons olive oil, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and the hot pepper flakes. Add

the cherry tomatoes and garlic and stir to coat.

 

4. Flip over the spaghetti squash halves, fill the squash cavities with the feta and top

with the tomato-garlic mixture (with all vinaigrette from bowl), and continue

roasting until the squash is fork tender and tomatoes are bursting, about 35

minutes more.

 

5. Using a fork stir/scrape up the spaghetti-like squash strands with the feta and

tomato mixture. Sprinkle with the cracked black pepper and pine nuts, if using.

Top with the basil and serve.

 
Serves: 2
 
Protein: 24g
 
Calories: 783