Mediterranean-Style Steamed Spaghetti Squash with Herbed Tomato Medley
Delight in this vibrant and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender strands of spaghetti squash topped with a rich, flavorful mix of fresh tomatoes, zesty olives, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for those seeking a low-carb meal, this dish not only provides plenty of nutrients but also bursts with the essence of summer produce. The preparation allows for a passive marinating of the tomato and olive blend, enhancing the flavors and making it a delightful addition to any meal. Serve it warm as a main course or a side, and enjoy the wholesome goodness of every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
large tomatoes
4 (seeded and chopped (preferably fresh from the garden))
Nicoise olives
1/2 cup (or other small ripe olives)
olive oil
1/4 cup (for the tomato mixture)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for drizzling before serving)
fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup (cut into julienne strips)
green onions
3-4 (chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon
spaghetti squash
1 (4 lb)
mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 cups (shredded (6 oz))
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean-Style Steamed Spaghetti Squash with Herbed Tomato Medley?
It is a vibrant, healthy dish featuring tender strands of spaghetti squash topped with a flavorful mix of fresh tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs.
Is this recipe considered low-carb?
Yes, this dish is specifically designed for those seeking a low-carb meal option.
Is the Mediterranean-Style Steamed Spaghetti Squash gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses spaghetti squash instead of wheat-based pasta.
How many tomatoes are required for the medley?
The recipe calls for 4 large tomatoes, preferably fresh from the garden, seeded and chopped.
What type of olives should I use?
The recipe recommends 1/2 cup of Nicoise olives or other small ripe olives.
What size spaghetti squash do I need?
You will need one spaghetti squash weighing approximately 4 lbs.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, by substituting the mozzarella cheese with a plant-based alternative, this recipe can be made vegan.
How much mozzarella cheese is used?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 cups (approximately 6 oz) of shredded mozzarella cheese.
What herbs provide the aromatic flavor in this dish?
Fresh basil leaves, cut into julienne strips, provide the primary aromatic herb flavor.
How much olive oil is needed in total?
The recipe uses a total of 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
What type of vinegar is used in the tomato mixture?
Two tablespoons of red wine vinegar are used to add zest to the medley.
How many garlic cloves are included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 minced garlic cloves.
How should the green onions be prepared?
You should use 3 to 4 green onions, chopped.
What is the benefit of the marinating process in this recipe?
Passive marinating of the tomato and olive blend enhances the flavors and allows them to meld together.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it can be served warm as either a main course or a side dish.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is tagged as an easy recipe, making it accessible for home cooks.
How much black pepper should I add?
The recipe suggests adding 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Should the tomatoes be seeded?
Yes, the tomatoes should be seeded and chopped before being added to the mixture.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients required for this Mediterranean-style dish.
What defines the 'Mediterranean-style' of this squash dish?
The use of olive oil, fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olives gives it a classic Mediterranean profile.
Is this recipe high in nutrients?
Yes, it is described as a nutrient-dense meal that utilizes fresh summer produce.
How is the basil prepared?
The fresh basil leaves should be cut into julienne strips.
Is the cheese melted in this dish?
While not explicitly in the summary, typically mozzarella is added to the warm squash to create a 'cheesy' texture as per the tags.
Can I use any type of tomato?
Large fresh tomatoes are recommended, ideally garden-fresh for the best flavor.
What is the primary vegetable base?
The primary base is steamed spaghetti squash.
Is there a specific way to serve the olive oil?
A portion of the oil (1/4 cup) is mixed into the tomatoes, while 1 tablespoon is reserved for drizzling before serving.
Is this dish suitable for a summer meal?
Yes, the description notes it bursts with the essence of summer produce.
What is the texture of the spaghetti squash?
The squash should be prepared until it forms tender strands.
Are there any specific olive alternatives listed?
If you don't have Nicoise olives, any small ripe olives will work as a substitute.
Is the mozzarella pre-shredded or fresh?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.