Baked Feta Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines roasted tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and pasta, creating a comforting meal that is easy to prepare. This trendy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful gathering with friends.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)

Timing

Making Baked Feta Pasta takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Bake the Feta and Tomatoes

1. Arrange Ingredients: In a baking dish, place the cherry tomatoes and the block of feta cheese in the center.
2. Season: Drizzle with olive oil, and add minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the tomatoes gently to coat.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft and slightly golden.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Together: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the baked feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce.
2. Add Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5: Dig In

1. Savor the Flavor: Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this delicious pasta dish!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Baked Feta Pasta (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	12g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein-packed meal.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for varied flavor profiles.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the creaminess of feta cheese with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for its ease and incredible flavor. Enjoy this delightful recipe!