Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes
Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Kitchen
I absolutely love Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes! This dish is a wonderful symphony of flavors, where creamy, tangy feta meets sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes. To make it even better, I’ve found that roasting them together brings out their natural sweetness and depth, creating a sauce that's simply irresistible. It’s an easy recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as I share my favorite twist on this trending dish!
When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Baked Feta Pasta, I was intrigued by the simplicity and potential for flavor. I decided to test it out with my favorite cherry tomatoes, and the results were nothing short of magical. The cheese melded beautifully with the tomatoes, creating a luscious sauce that clung perfectly to the pasta. One tip I learned is to use just the right amount of olive oil to prevent the cheese from drying out while enhancing the flavor.
As I tweaked the recipe over time, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of fresh basil right before serving elevated the dish even further. It not only adds a burst of freshness, but the aroma is absolutely heavenly. This method not only guarantees deliciousness but also makes it visually stunning—a must for any dinner table!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy feta that melts seamlessly into a rich tomato sauce
- Quick and easy – perfect for busy weeknights
- Fresh herbs elevate the dish, making it perfect for any occasion
Mastering the Roast
Roasting the feta and tomatoes together is key to achieving the rich flavor of this dish. When you place them in the oven, the heat concentrates the sweet juices of the cherry tomatoes, which caramelize slightly, enhancing their sweetness. Keep an eye on the tomatoes; they should burst open, giving off their juices. You’ll know when they’re done when they become soft and slightly charred on the edges, which adds depth to the sauce.
Using a high-quality feta cheese is crucial. A block of Greek feta will provide a creamier texture and more intense flavor compared to crumbled varieties. Look for feta stored in brine, as it will maintain moisture and richness during baking, melting into a flavorful sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using reduced-fat feta, but be aware it may not melt as luxuriously.
Pasta Perfection
For this recipe, pasta selection can greatly affect the dish's texture. Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work well, as they hold the sauce and pieces of tomato and feta beautifully. Be careful not to overcook the pasta; aim for al dente, which means it should be tender yet firm to the bite. This will ensure the pasta won’t become mushy when mixed with the buttery sauce.
If you're looking to lighten the meal, you could opt for whole wheat or legume-based pasta. These alternatives add fiber and protein, making the dish more filling without sacrificing flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as these types of pasta can have different recommended cooking durations.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create this delectable dish:
Ingredients
- 200g pasta of choice
- Feta cheese block (200g)
- 400g cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Let's get cooking! Follow these easy steps to whip up your Baked Feta Pasta:
Prepare Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and olive oil. Add salt and pepper, and mix well.
Add Feta
Nestle the feta cheese block in the middle of the tomato mixture. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top of the feta, and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and softened.
Cook Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together, then mix in the cooked pasta until well combined.
Garnish and Serve
Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor.
Storage Tips
This dish is great for meal prep! If you have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, covered, to prevent drying out, or enjoy them cold, where the flavors have melded further.
If you’re thinking ahead, you could prep the feta and tomato mixture a day in advance, storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake and cook the pasta, making it an ideal option for busy weekday meals.
Serving Suggestions
Consider pairing this dish with a crisp green salad for contrast; the freshness of greens complements the richness of the feta and tomatoes perfectly. A simple toss of arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of sea salt works beautifully to cut through the creaminess.
For added protein, you can serve the pasta with grilled chicken or shrimp mixed in. Both options not only enhance the nutritional aspect but also bring their unique flavors, making the dish even more satisfying and hearty.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or ricotta can also work well as substitutes for feta.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for additional flavors and nutrients.
→ Is it suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat products.
Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes
I absolutely love Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes! This dish is a wonderful symphony of flavors, where creamy, tangy feta meets sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes. To make it even better, I’ve found that roasting them together brings out their natural sweetness and depth, creating a sauce that's simply irresistible. It’s an easy recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as I share my favorite twist on this trending dish!
Created by: Felicity Grant
Recipe Type: Sugar & Spice Kitchen
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 200g pasta of choice
- Feta cheese block (200g)
- 400g cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and olive oil. Add salt and pepper, and mix well.
Nestle the feta cheese block in the middle of the tomato mixture. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top of the feta, and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and softened.
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together, then mix in the cooked pasta until well combined.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 15g