Are you ready to indulge in a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients? Meet the Baked Margherita Spaghetti Squash—a delightful Italian-inspired recipe that transforms a humble squash into a gourmet experience! With its tender strands resembling spaghetti, this dish is perfect for both pasta lovers and those seeking a lighter alternative. Imagine the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, the creamy goodness of fresh mozzarella, and the aromatic touch of basil, all coming together in one mouthwatering bite. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your spaghetti squash cooks evenly and becomes tender.
- While the oven is preheating, carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Be cautious as the squash can be tough to cut through.
- Once halved, scoop out the seeds and stringy insides with a spoon. Discard the seeds and stringy bits, leaving a hollow shell for the filling.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the cut sides of the spaghetti squash. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Rub the oil and seasonings into the flesh to ensure even flavor.
- Place the spaghetti squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Roast the spaghetti squash in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the topping. In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, chopped basil, the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients together.
- Once the spaghetti squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands, creating the 'spaghetti' texture.
- Transfer the spaghetti strands to a large mixing bowl. Add the prepared tomato and mozzarella mixture to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
- Return the mixture back into the spaghetti squash halves, filling them generously with the tomato and mozzarella mixture.
- Optional: For a golden top, you can sprinkle some extra mozzarella cheese on top of the filled squash halves.
- Return the stuffed spaghetti squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Baked Margherita Spaghetti Squash!
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a medium-sized spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size. This ensures you get a good yield of spaghetti strands.
- Cut with Care: When cutting the squash, use a sharp knife and be cautious. If it’s too tough, you can microwave it for a few minutes to soften it slightly before cutting.
- Roasting Perfection: For perfectly roasted squash, place it cut side down on the baking sheet. This helps to caramelize the flesh and enhances the flavor.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to customize the topping! Add some sautéed garlic, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: If you love cheese, don’t hold back! Adding more mozzarella or even a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before the final bake can elevate the dish to new heights.
- Garnish for Flair: Fresh basil isn’t just for flavor; it adds a beautiful pop of color. Don’t skip the garnish before serving!
- Serve with Style: For a stunning presentation, serve the stuffed squash halves on a large platter, drizzled with balsamic reduction for an extra touch of elegance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
