Baked Feta Tomato Pasta Simple and Tasty Dish

Baked Feta Tomato Pasta is a simple, tasty dish that you’ll love! In just a few steps, you can transform basic ingredients into a flavorful meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. I’ll share tips, ingredient options, and secrets for the best taste. Ready to learn how to make this crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive into the delicious world of baked feta pasta!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)

– 200g block of feta cheese

– 500g cherry tomatoes, halved

– 3 cloves of garlic, minced

– 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Optional Ingredients

– Red pepper flakes add heat. Use them if you like it spicy.

– Grated Parmesan cheese gives extra flavor. Serve it on the side.

Substitutions

– Use gluten-free pasta if you need. It works just as well.

– Swap feta with goat cheese for a different taste.

– If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, use regular tomatoes cut into pieces.

This dish is all about freshness and flavor. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating a rich and tasty meal. Feel free to get creative with your substitutions!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This step is key for a great bake. Next, grab a medium baking dish. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic to the dish. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over this mix. Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like heat. Toss everything so each piece is covered well.

Combine Tomatoes and Seasonings

Make a little space in the center of the dish for the feta cheese. Place the feta block there. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over it. This helps the cheese soak up all those yummy flavors.

Baking the Feta and Tomatoes

Now, put the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake it for 25-30 minutes. You want the feta to turn golden and the tomatoes to become blistered. This step creates a perfect blend of taste and texture.

Cooking the Pasta

While your dish bakes, fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and let it sit. This helps get rid of extra water.

Combining Pasta with Sauce

After the baking time, carefully take the dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta into the blistered tomatoes. Mix them until you have a creamy sauce. Now, add the cooked pasta right into the baking dish. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the feta and tomato sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta hot. Add fresh basil leaves on top for a lovely aroma. If you want, you can also offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side. This dish tastes great with a green salad or some toasted garlic bread. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Best Flavor

To get the best taste from Baked Feta Tomato Pasta, use fresh ingredients. Fresh cherry tomatoes burst with flavor. When you bake them, they become sweet and juicy. Use good-quality feta cheese. A block of feta melts beautifully, making a creamy sauce. Don’t skip the garlic; it adds depth. Red pepper flakes give a nice kick. Adjust the amount to your taste. Finally, add fresh basil for a fragrant finish. It brightens every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people overcook the feta and tomatoes. Keep an eye on them while they bake. If the feta gets too brown, it can become dry. Also, avoid using too much salt at the start. Feta is salty on its own. Taste your dish before adding more. Lastly, don’t forget to mix the pasta well with the sauce. This ensures every piece gets coated in that delicious flavor.

Recommended Pairings

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pasta. You can also serve it with toasted garlic bread. The crunchy bread soaks up the extra sauce. For drinks, a light white wine works great. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon. Enjoy your meal with friends and family!

Variations

Adding Vegetables

You can easily add vegetables to this dish. Try using spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces. Mix them with the tomatoes before baking. These additions boost flavor and nutrition. Plus, they add color to your plate.

Different Cheese Options

Feta cheese is great, but there are other options. Goat cheese adds a tangy flavor. Mozzarella gives you a stretchy texture. You can also use ricotta for creaminess. Each cheese brings its own taste, so feel free to experiment.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer good choices now. You can also use zucchini noodles for a fresh twist. They pair well with the sauce and keep it light. Enjoy your dish without worry!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftover baked feta tomato pasta, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well to avoid drying out.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Use the microwave for quick warming. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 180°C (350°F). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for around 15-20 minutes until it’s hot throughout.

Freezing the Dish

Freezing baked feta tomato pasta is a great way to save it for later. First, let it cool completely. Then, divide it into portion-sized containers. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before using the microwave or oven.

FAQs

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

Yes, you can use crumbled feta. It will melt into the sauce differently. You may not get the same creamy texture. However, it will still taste great. If you use crumbled feta, add it halfway through baking. This helps it blend well with the tomatoes.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

I love using penne or fusilli. Both shapes catch the sauce well. Penne has a nice bite, while fusilli twists hold onto the creamy mixture. You can also try other short pasta shapes if you prefer.

How can I make it spicier?

To spice things up, add more red pepper flakes. You can start with one teaspoon and adjust to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper also works well. Just be careful not to overdo it!

Can I make this dish in advance?

You can prep the dish ahead of time. Just make the tomato and feta mixture and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, bake it as usual. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

How to make it vegetarian-friendly?

This dish is already vegetarian! The ingredients include pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and feta cheese. Just ensure the feta is made without animal rennet. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty meal.

In this article, I shared how to create a simple and tasty feta pasta dish. I covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Remember, experimenting with flavors and variations can enhance your meal. Store leftovers properly and enjoy them later. Making this dish can be fun and rewarding. With a few tricks, you can impress your family and friends. Try this recipe, and you might discover a new favorit