Mediterranean Baked Spaghetti is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish. It's packed with fresh veggies and topped with tangy feta and Parmesan, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. Let's dive into a flavorful journey that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Spaghetti serves as the hearty base for this dish, providing the perfect vehicle for the flavorful sauce and veggies. Olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables. Eggplant, zucchini, and red bell pepper bring a medley of textures and flavors, while cherry tomatoes add sweetness and juiciness. Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth. The dried oregano and basil deliver that signature Mediterranean aroma. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning. A good marinara sauce ties everything together with its rich tomato flavor. Feta cheese adds a tangy, creamy bite, and Parmesan cheese provides a nutty, savory finish. Finally, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
This baked spaghetti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. A side of crusty garlic bread would complement the meal perfectly, soaking up any extra sauce from your plate. Consider a glass of chilled white wine to round out the Mediterranean experience.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's heating up, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain it well and set it aside for later.
Now, grab a large skillet and pour in the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced eggplant, sliced zucchini, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until everything is just softened. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells absolutely enticing.
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic of Mediterranean herbs transforms your veggies. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with this fragrant vegetable mixture and the marinara sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated.
Transfer this mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumbled feta and grated Parmesan all over the top. Pop it in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted beautifully and is bubbly and golden.
Once out of the oven, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish before serving.
Share