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Greek-Inspired Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

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easy preparation, this stuffed spaghetti squash comes together quickly and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

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  • Ingredients You’ll Need

    For this Greek-Inspired Stuffed Spaghetti Squash, you’ll need a few simple ingredients to bring all the Mediterranean flavors to life. Here’s what you’ll need to create this satisfying dish:

    For the Spaghetti Squash:

    • 2 medium-sized spaghetti squashes
    • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

    For the Stuffing:

    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
    • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
    • 1 cup cooked quinoa (or couscous, or rice for a different twist)
    • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
    • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
    • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
    • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
    • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the stuffing)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

    How to Make Greek-Inspired Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

    Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

    Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut each spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, removing the seeds from the center. Drizzle the flesh of each half with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

    Roast the spaghetti squash for about 40-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily scraped with a fork. You’ll know it’s done when the inside separates into spaghetti-like strands.

    Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

    While the spaghetti squash is roasting, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley, oregano, thyme, garlic, and lemon juice. Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

    Step 3: Scoop the Squash

    Once the squash has finished roasting, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Using a fork, gently scrape the flesh of the squash to create spaghetti-like strands. Be careful not to break the squash skins, as you’ll use them as bowls for the stuffing.

    Step 4: Stuff the Squash

    Spoon the quinoa mixture into each of the roasted spaghetti squash halves, gently packing it down to fill the squash “boats” completely. If there’s any leftover stuffing, you can serve it on the side or add it on top for extra flavor.

    Step 5: Bake and Serve

    Place the stuffed spaghetti squash back in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and for the stuffing to heat through. Once the squash is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven.

    Serve the stuffed spaghetti squash hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra parsley and a few more crumbles of feta cheese, if desired. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with a little more lemon juice or olive oil before serving.

    Tips for Success

    • Cooking the Squash: If you have a particularly large spaghetti squash, you may need to increase the roasting time by a few minutes. Just check for tenderness to know when it’s ready.
    • Substitute with Other Grains: If you prefer, you can use couscous, brown rice, or even orzo instead of quinoa. This allows for some flexibility depending on what you have in your pantry.
    • Add Protein: If you’d like to add protein to this dish, grilled chicken, lamb, or even chickpeas would be great additions. Simply top the stuffed squash with your protein choice before serving.
    • Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichokes for additional flavor and texture.
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    Why This Recipe Works

    The beauty of this Greek-Inspired Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is in its balance of flavors and textures. The roasted squash provides a slightly sweet and tender base, while the quinoa filling is hearty and flavorful, enhanced by the briny olives and tangy feta cheese. The fresh tomatoes add a burst of juiciness, while the herbs like oregano and thyme deliver a refreshing, aromatic note. The dish is satisfying yet light, making it a perfect healthy dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

    Conclusion

    This Greek-Inspired Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a delightful and healthy meal that combines all the best flavors of the Mediterranean. With its savory quinoa filling, creamy feta, and tangy olives, this dish is perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Whether you’re eating gluten-free, vegetarian, or just looking for something new, this stuffed squash will make a fantastic addition to your weekly dinner rotation. It’s simple, delicious, and full of Mediterranean goodness—what’s not to love? Enjoy!