Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? This Baked Feta Pasta with Tomatoes is easy, tasty, and satisfying! With creamy feta, sweet tomatoes, and a hint of spice, it's perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. Follow my step-by-step guide to create a meal that will impress everyone at your table. Grab your ingredients and let’s cook up something delicious together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: This pasta dish showcases vibrant flavors from fresh cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic, making it a delightful and healthful meal.
- Easy Preparation: With minimal steps and just one baking dish required, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or quick dinners.
- Flavorful Feta: The baked feta transforms into a creamy, rich sauce that pairs beautifully with the pasta, adding a unique twist to traditional recipes.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat level by modifying the red pepper flakes and add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Pasta selection: You can choose from penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Each type adds a unique texture. Penne works well with the sauce, while fusilli captures it. Spaghetti gives a lovely twist and turns the dish into a comforting classic.
- Feta cheese: Use a block of feta cheese for the best creamy texture. It softens in the oven and mixes beautifully with the tomatoes. The saltiness of the feta adds a rich flavor to the dish.
- Cherry tomatoes: You need 300g of cherry tomatoes. Halve them to help them cook evenly. Their sweetness shines when baked, creating a tasty sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta.
Seasonings and Extras
- Garlic and olive oil: You will use 4 cloves of minced garlic and 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Garlic adds depth, while olive oil helps create a silky sauce when baked.
- Oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper: Add 1 teaspoon each of oregano and red pepper flakes. These seasonings enhance the dish's overall flavor. Adjust red pepper flakes based on how spicy you like your pasta. Use salt and pepper to taste.
- Lemon zest and juice, basil leaves, and Parmesan cheese: The zest and juice of 1 lemon brighten the flavors. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and taste. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish.
Set your oven to 200°C (400°F). While it heats, grab a large baking dish.
2. Tossing tomatoes with garlic and seasonings.
In the dish, add 300g of halved cherry tomatoes and 4 cloves of minced garlic. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until the tomatoes are covered.
Baking Process
1. Placing feta and baking tips.
Now, place a 200g block of feta cheese right in the center of the tomatoes. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta. Add a little salt and pepper on top.
2. How to know when it's ready.
Bake this mix in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for the tomatoes to blister and the feta to get soft and golden.
Pasta Cooking Instructions
1. Cooking to al dente and draining.
While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook 200g of pasta. Follow the package directions until it is al dente. After cooking, drain it but keep a small cup of pasta water.
2. Combining pasta with feta-tomato mixture.
Once the feta and tomato mix is done, take it out of the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta into the tomatoes. This creates a creamy sauce.
Mix the cooked pasta into this sauce. If it seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it looks just right.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Choosing the right pasta is key. I recommend using penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. These shapes hold the sauce well. Look for pasta made from durum wheat for a nice bite.
To ensure the feta gets creamy, use a block of feta, not crumbled. When baked, the block melts better. Drizzle olive oil over the feta before baking. This helps it soften and mix well with tomatoes.
Adjusting for Taste
To modify heat levels, adjust the red pepper flakes. You can add less for a mild dish or more for a spicy kick. Taste as you go to find the right balance.
For dietary preferences, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free option. You can also add more veggies like spinach or zucchini. This keeps the dish fresh and colorful.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes and high-quality feta for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Heat: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
- Save Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Garnish Creatively: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or arugula for varied flavors.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can switch out the cheese for goat cheese. This cheese adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with tomatoes. If you want more texture, try adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For protein, toss in cooked chicken or shrimp. These swaps create a new dish and keep things exciting.
Flavor Enhancements
Fresh herbs can really boost the dish. Try adding parsley or thyme right before serving. They add a bright taste that mixes well with the creamy feta. You can also serve the pasta with crusty bread or a fresh salad. These sides balance the richness of the pasta and make your meal even better.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
After making baked feta pasta, you may have leftovers. To store them, let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents odors from other foods. Place the container in the fridge. Leftovers are best when eaten within three days for the best taste.
Reheating Guidelines
When you reheat the pasta, you want to keep it creamy. I recommend using the stovetop. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water. Heat it over low heat and stir gently. This helps maintain the creamy sauce. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it. When stored properly, baked feta pasta lasts about three days in the fridge. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use dried tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried tomatoes. They add a rich flavor. Just soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes. This helps them soften before you add them to the dish.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you can't find feta, try goat cheese or ricotta. Both options give a creamy texture. You can also use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan choice.
Serving Suggestions
What to serve with baked feta pasta?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread. A light green salad helps balance the flavors. Garlic bread adds a nice crunch and complements the dish.
Can this recipe be made as a salad?
Yes, you can make it as a salad. After baking the feta and tomatoes, let them cool. Toss with fresh greens and your favorite dressing. This makes a refreshing meal for warm days.
This baked feta pasta blends flavor with ease, using simple yet tasty ingredients. You start with fresh pasta, feta, and vibrant tomatoes, mixing them with garlic, olive oil, and spices. Baking creates a creamy delight, while tips help you customize it to your taste. Whether adding veggies or swapping cheeses, there’s room for creativity. Store leftovers properly for future meals. By exploring variations and FAQs, you’ll make this dish exciting every time. Enjoy your cooking journey and share your tasty results with friend
