Spaghetti squash might not be the first thing you think of when you’re craving a hearty meal, but trust me, this recipe is a game-changer. It’s like discovering your favorite band has an acoustic set—unexpected yet totally satisfying. Tossed with vibrant veggies, this dish is a rainbow on your plate, and honestly, who doesn’t need a bit more color in their life?
Steps
- Poke holes in the spaghetti squash with a fork, place it in a microwave-safe dish, and cook on high in the microwave for 12 minutes. Let it cool until it can be handled safely.
- Cut the cooled squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Use a fork to scrape the flesh into a large bowl, separating the strands as much as possible.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion in the hot oil for about 3 minutes until just tender, then add minced garlic and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add zucchini and green bell pepper to the skillet, seasoning with Italian herbs and black pepper. Stir and cook until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Pour chopped tomatoes into the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through. Add the spaghetti squash strands and mix everything together evenly.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the squash mixture and toss again to combine well before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 large clove of garlic, minced
- 1 large zucchini, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herb seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups of chopped tomatoes
- ¾ cup of crumbled feta cheese
Nutritional Values
Total Calories: 948 | Total Fat: 60g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Sodium: 1428mg | Total Carbohydrate: 96g | Dietary Fiber: 12g | Total Sugars: 24g | Protein: 30g | Vitamin C: 210mg | Calcium: 912mg | Iron: 6mg | Potassium: 2790mg
FAQ
- Can I cook the spaghetti squash in the oven instead of the microwave?
- Yes, you can bake the spaghetti squash in the oven. Simply preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), pierce the squash with a fork, and bake for about 45 minutes or until tender.
- Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
- Absolutely! Feel free to customize the dish by adding other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or carrots to suit your taste.
- Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
- Yes, you can include proteins like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the meal more filling.
- What can I use instead of feta cheese for a different flavor?
- You can substitute feta cheese with other cheeses like parmesan, goat cheese, or even a plant-based cheese alternative if you prefer.
- How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
- To make this dish vegan, replace the feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
Tips
- For a more intense flavor, consider roasting the spaghetti squash in the oven instead of microwaving it. This can enhance its natural sweetness and add a slightly caramelized taste.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. For instance, if you’re out of zucchini, you might substitute it with other vegetables like bell peppers or add extras like fresh baby spinach or green onions.
- To increase the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even a handful of nuts. This can transform the dish into a more filling main course.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste with additional herbs or spices, such as fresh basil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat. Adding a dash of your favorite seasoning blend can also enhance the dish’s flavor.
Equipment
- Microwave-safe dish (suitable for cooking spaghetti squash in the microwave)
- Large skillet (if not already owned, for sautéing vegetables and mixing ingredients)
