Baked Feta Pasta Quick and Flavorful Dinner Recipe

Craving a quick and tasty dinner? Baked feta pasta is the answer! In just a few simple steps, you can create a creamy, dreamy dish packed with flavor. This recipe is rich with garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, it’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this easy, mouthwatering meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 block (200g) of feta cheese

– 300g pasta (penne or fusilli)

– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

Seasonings and Oils

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– ½ cup olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes

– Fresh basil leaves

– Zest of 1 lemon

To create this dish, start with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The feta cheese is key. It melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture. I love using ripe cherry tomatoes. They burst with flavor as they cook.

The seasonings enhance the dish’s taste. Garlic brings a strong aroma, while oregano adds earthiness. The red pepper flakes give a kick that you can adjust based on your spice level. Olive oil is essential for richness.

Don’t forget the garnishes! Fresh basil brightens the dish with its herbal note. The lemon zest adds a zesty punch. Combining all these ingredients creates a vibrant and tasty meal.

This recipe is simple yet impressive. You can easily find all these ingredients at your local market. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

– In a large baking dish, combine:

– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– ½ cup olive oil

– Season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat all the ingredients.

Baking the Feta

– Place 1 block (200g) of feta cheese in the center of the dish.

– Bake for 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta turns golden.

Cooking Pasta

– Cook 300g pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

– Drain and set aside until ready to mix.

Final Mixing

– Once baked, mash the feta and tomatoes with a fork until creamy.

– Toss in the cooked pasta and the zest of 1 lemon. Mix well to combine.

For the complete instructions and detailed steps, check the Full Recipe.

Tips & Tricks

Perfect Texture and Flavor

To make your baked feta pasta shine, use ripe cherry tomatoes. They add a nice sweetness to the dish. You can also adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat. If you want more spice, add a bit more, but start slow.

Cheese Alternatives

Don’t be afraid to try different cheeses. Goat cheese can bring a tangy twist to your dish. You can also use flavored feta for added taste. Herbs or spices in the cheese can enhance the overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your baked feta pasta with crusty bread or a light salad for balance. This adds texture and freshness. For a vibrant finish, garnish with extra basil and lemon zest. This simple touch enhances both flavor and presentation.

For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Variations

Seasonal Ingredients

You can easily mix things up with fresh greens. I love adding spinach or arugula. They add color and nutrients. You can also use other seasonal veggies like zucchini. Just chop them up and toss them in before baking. This keeps the dish fresh and exciting.

Different Pasta Shapes

Feel free to switch up the pasta shape. Spaghetti or rigatoni work great too. If you need a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free pasta. It tastes just as good and works well with the feta sauce.

Protein Additions

Want to add some protein? Grilled chicken or shrimp are perfect choices. They bring a nice flavor and texture. For a vegetarian option, try adding chickpeas. They boost your meal with healthy protein and add a nice bite.

For the full recipe, check out the Baked Feta Pasta Fiesta section above.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

– Store your baked feta pasta in an airtight container.

– It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

– Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.

Reheating Instructions

– You can reheat the pasta in a microwave.

– Alternatively, use an oven for even heating.

– Add a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.

Freezing Options

– You can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months.

– To enjoy later, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

– Reheat it fully before serving for the best taste.

This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for busy nights! For the full recipe, check out the details above.

FAQs

How do I make Baked Feta Pasta vegan?

To make Baked Feta Pasta vegan, swap the feta cheese with tofu or a vegan cheese alternative. Tofu works well because it absorbs flavors and gives a creamy texture. You can marinate the tofu in olive oil and herbs for extra taste before baking.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can use goat cheese or mozzarella as great substitutes. Goat cheese adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the tomatoes. Mozzarella gives a creamy, stretchy texture that is delightful in this dish.

What can I serve with Baked Feta Pasta?

Baked Feta Pasta pairs well with a simple salad or crusty bread. A green salad with fresh veggies complements the pasta’s rich flavor. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To adjust the spice level, modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste. Add less for a milder dish or more for a spicy kick. You can also use fresh chili peppers for a different heat profile.

For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

You can make a delicious baked feta pasta with just a few simple steps. Start with quality ingredients, bake the feta and tomatoes, then mix it with pasta. This dish is easy to adapt with different vegetables and cheeses. Remember to store leftovers properly and feel free to experiment with flavors. Enjoy this warm and creamy meal anytime. It’s a crowd-pleaser that you can share with family and friends. Happy cooking!

Baked Feta Pasta

Dive into the delicious world of Baked Feta Pasta Fiesta! This easy recipe combines creamy feta cheese, bursting cherry tomatoes, and al dente pasta for a mouth-watering meal that's ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it's a dish everyone will love. Click to explore the full recipe and elevate your cooking game with this flavorful favorite!

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Ingredients

  

1 block (200g) of feta cheese

300g pasta (penne or fusilli are great choices)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

½ cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a large baking dish, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss all the ingredients together to ensure they are well coated.

Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish among the tomatoes and drizzle it lightly with more olive oil.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is golden and soft.

While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Once the feta and tomatoes are done, remove them from the oven and use a fork to mash the feta cheese and mix it with the tomatoes until a creamy sauce forms.

Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the feta-tomato sauce.

Stir in the lemon zest for a fresh pop of flavor. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4