Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring creamy, baked feta cheese and roasted cherry tomatoes. When mixed together, they create a savory sauce that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta, making it an easy and delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 1 block of feta cheese
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• 10 oz pasta of your choice

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish.
3. Arrange the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic around the feta cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the feta is softened and the tomatoes are blistered and juicy.
6. While the feta is baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain.
7. Remove the feta and tomatoes from the oven, then mix and smash everything together to form a creamy sauce.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing until evenly coated.
9. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Feta Pasta: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the dish before baking for a spicy kick.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flavors.
• Vegetable Additions: Include sliced bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrients.
• Herbed Feta: Use herbed feta for additional flavors, or add dried oregano and thyme.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to restore the creamy texture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
   Yes, but a block melts and combines better. Crumbled feta can still work if packed closely in the center.
2. What type of pasta works best?
   Short pasta like penne or rotini works well, but any pasta will do.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.
4. Is fresh basil necessary?
   Fresh basil adds a nice touch, but you can use dried basil or skip it if needed.
5. Can I substitute the feta cheese?
   Goat cheese or ricotta can work, but the flavor and texture will differ.
6. Do I need to cook the tomatoes beforehand?
   No, they cook perfectly in the oven and become soft and juicy.
7. Can I make this vegan?
   Use a vegan feta alternative and plant-based pasta for a vegan-friendly version.
8. What’s the best way to keep the pasta from drying out?
   Drizzle with a little extra olive oil before reheating to retain moisture.
9. Can I add protein?
   Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp make great additions.
10. Can I use sun-dried tomatoes?
    Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique flavor but won’t become as soft as fresh ones.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is a creamy, savory dish that’s incredibly easy to make and full of flavor. With its minimal ingredients and versatile options, this recipe is perfect for any pasta lover seeking a quick, satisfying meal.

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