Indulge in the creamy, savory goodness of baked feta pasta that has taken the culinary world by storm. This dish combines roasted feta cheese with fresh tomatoes and pasta, creating a flavorful experience with every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful gathering, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this delightful meal!
Ingredients
– 200g pasta (your choice)
– 200g feta cheese
– 300g cherry tomatoes
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 15g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, place the feta cheese in the center.
3. Surround the feta with cherry tomatoes.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes.
5. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper on top.
6. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes until the feta is golden and soft.
7. While baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
8. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
9. Once the feta is ready, remove from the oven and mash it with a fork.
10. Combine the pasta with the feta and tomatoes, adding pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier flavor. Additionally, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well. For a vegan option, use plant-based feta and pasta.
Serving and Pairings
This baked feta pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. A glass of white wine can elevate the dining experience, making it a perfect choice for gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the olive oil; it enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
– Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Make sure to use good quality feta for the best taste.
– Don’t forget to reserve pasta water for creaminess.
– Adjust seasoning after mixing in the pasta, as flavors may intensify.
Helpful Tips
– Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
– Use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
– Experiment with different types of pasta shapes for a fun twist.
– Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives to feta, which will give a different taste profile.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners.
What can I add for extra protein?
Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to increase the protein content of the dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without gluten.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the olive oil before baking or mix in some diced jalapeños for a kick.
Conclusion
Baked feta pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home. With easy-to-follow steps and delicious results, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.
Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta your choice
- 200 g feta cheese
- 300 g cherry tomatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a baking dish, place the feta cheese in the center.
- Surround the feta with cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes.
- Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper on top.
- Bake in the oven for 25 minutes until the feta is golden and soft.
- While baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Once the feta is ready, remove from the oven and mash it with a fork.
- Combine the pasta with the feta and tomatoes, adding pasta water to achieve desired consistency.