Baked Feta Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes Basil
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Craving something quick, easy, and bursting with flavour? Ever wondered what recipes using feta cheese could be both simple and satisfying? Honestly, this baked feta pasta is about to become your new go-to.
I like it because it's quick and delicious.
Greek Goodness on Your Plate
This dish is inspired by those Mediterranean dishes that transport you straight to a sun-soaked taverna. Think of it as easy Mediterranean diet recipes you can whip up in under an hour.
It's a total win. This tomato feta pasta recipe is originally a greek recipe , and has taken the world by storm.
It's beginner friendly. The prep is about 10 minutes and the baking time is 30. This easy pasta dish feeds four hungry souls. Perfect for a casual Mediterranean diet dinners .
Why You'll Love This Feta Cheese Appetizer
Feta is fantastic for you and is delicious. Feta is packed with calcium and protein. This recipe is also a fantastic excuse to gather your mates for a chill night.
It's so special because it takes minimal effort but tastes like you've been slaving away in the kitchen all day.
We love it so much at home!.
Time to grab your feta. On to the ingredients!
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this Baked Feta Pasta . It is one of the best recipes using feta cheese .
This is gonna be fun! We can call this Mediterranean Diet Recipes Dinners night, sorted!
Ingredients & Equipment
Trust me, this recipe is super simple. It’s all about getting the right stuff together. Easy Mediterranean Diet Recipes are all about fresh, quality ingredients.
Main Ingredients
Okay, here's what you'll need. Let's get down to brass tacks.
- Cherry Tomatoes : 1.5 lbs (680g) . The sweeter, the better. Honestly, I prefer them on the vine because they roast so beautifully.
- Olive Oil : 1/4 cup (60ml) , plus a bit extra. Get the good stuff, extra virgin olive oil ! You can taste the difference.
- Garlic : 4 cloves , minced. Don't be shy!
- Red Pepper Flakes : 1/2 teaspoon (optional). I like a little kick, don't you?
- Dried Oregano : 1/2 teaspoon . Adds that classic Mediterranean Dishes vibe.
- Salt and Pepper : To taste. Season generously!
- Feta Cheese : 8 ounces (225g) block. Greek feta is the real deal!
- Pasta : 1 pound (450g) . Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works great. Easy pasta dishes , solved.
- Fresh Basil : 1/4 cup (packed) , chopped. Oh my gosh, that aroma!
Seasoning Notes
Greek Recipes rely on simple but effective flavour combos. Oregano and garlic are key players. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely warmth.
Equipment Needed
You don't need fancy gear for this tomato feta pasta recipe .
- Baking Dish : A 9x13 inch one.
- Large Pot : For boiling pasta.
- Colander : For draining the pasta.
Don't have a fancy baking dish? Use a large oven safe pan. No colander? Use a plate, you know?. Honestly, it's more about enjoying the process than having the perfect equipment! Now let's make some Greek feta recipes ! Baked feta recipes are super trendy right now, and for good reason.
This is so tasty and is the perfect addition to your list of feta cheese appetizers .
Cooking Method: Baked Feta Pasta Perfection
Oh my gosh, this Baked Feta Pasta is a game changer! Seriously, if you're looking for Easy Mediterranean Diet Recipes , this is it .
It's so easy even I can't mess it up. And trust me, that's saying something. I always find myself looking for recipes using feta cheese , and this has become a weekly staple.
It's like a hug in a bowl, proper comfort food.
Prep Steps: Get Your Mise en Place On
First things first, let's get organised, yeah? Essential mise en place is key! Get your cherry tomatoes (about 1.5 lbs ), garlic ( 4 cloves , minced), chilli flakes (if you're feeling brave!), and oregano all measured out.
Grab your feta (an 8 ounce block , Greek if you can), olive oil, and pasta. This Mediterranean dish is a time saver! Safety wise, just be careful handling the hot baking dish, alright? I've been there, burnt my fingers more times than I care to admit!
step-by-step: Bake, Boil, Bliss
- Preheat the oven to 400° F ( 200° C). This is crucial for that beautiful bubbly bake.
- Throw the tomatoes, garlic, chilli (if using), and oregano into a 9x13 inch baking dish . Drizzle with olive oil. Salt and pepper.
- Pop the feta in the middle. Drizzle with more olive oil.
- Bake for 30 minutes. The tomatoes should be bursting and the feta all melty.
- While that's happening, cook your pasta 'til al dente. Remember to save some of that pasta water! It's liquid gold. This works amazing with easy pasta dishes, and makes it a Tomato feta pasta recipe!
- Mash the baked feta and tomatoes together.
- Add the pasta, basil, and a splash of that pasta water if it needs loosening up. I learned that the hard way once, ended up with a brick of pasta!
Pro Tips: Secret Sauce to Success
Use good quality feta! The cheap stuff can be too salty and dry. Honestly, Greek feta recipes are the way to go.
I like to add a squeeze of lemon at the end. It really brightens up the flavors. A common mistake is overcooking the pasta.
Aim for al dente! And did you know that you can also add other veggies like zucchini to the dish to bring it to a whole new level of Mediterranean Diet Recipes Dinners ? This makes it even healthier! Also try some Baked feta recipes .
If you're looking for Feta cheese appetizers , this baked feta base is amazing.
This dish is super versatile too! It’s perfect for using up leftovers and adapting based on what you have in the fridge.
Now you’re one step closer to trying this amazing and Easy Mediterranean Diet Recipes . Enjoy!
Recipe Notes: Let's Get Personal with this Baked Feta Pasta !
Right, so you're about to make this Baked Feta Pasta! Here's the lowdown. I've made this so many times, trust me, these tips are gold.
It's seriously one of those easy Mediterranean Diet Recipes Dinners that feels proper fancy but takes no time at all.
When I first made this, I was like, "Oh my gosh, that's how Mediterranean dishes are that easy!".
Serving Suggestions Get Your Plating Game On!
Okay, first impressions matter. For a really nice touch, serve this Greek Recipes pasta in individual bowls. Garnish with extra basil and a lemon wedge.
It looks dead impressive. A simple side salad works wonders, especially one with a lemon vinaigrette. Think light and fresh to balance the richness.
And if you're feeling extra, garlic bread is always a yes. I mean, who can say no to garlic bread? For drinks, a crisp white wine is a winner.
Think Sauvignon Blanc. You know? Something a bit zesty to cut through the creamy Tomato feta pasta recipe .
Storage Tips For Those Lucky Enough to Have Leftovers
Honestly, this Baked Feta Recipe rarely lasts long in my house. If you do have leftovers, get them in an airtight container and into the fridge pronto.
It'll keep for about 3 days . When reheating, a splash of milk or water can help bring back the creaminess.
I haven't tried freezing it (it never lasts that long!), but I reckon the feta might get a bit grainy.
Just saying.
Variations Make It Your Own!
Want to mix things up? This is where you can go crazy! For a Mediterranean Diet Recipes vibe, chuck in some roasted veggies like courgette or peppers.
If you're after Easy Mediterranean Diet Recipes , just keep it simple and use what you've got in the fridge.
For dietary stuff, you could swap the pasta for gluten-free or even zucchini noodles if you're feeling virtuous. And if you are vegan you can search the market for a feta cheese alternative.
There are so many recipes using feta cheese now with dairy-free options!.
Nutrition Basics Fueling Your Body the Delicious Way
Okay, let's be real. This isn't exactly health food. But it's packed with flavour, and feta does have some good stuff.
It's got protein, calcium, the lot. This Easy Pasta Dishes has around 650 calories, but that can vary depending on your portions.
Key health benefits? Well, it's good for the soul, innit? Eating Greek Feta Recipes should be good.
This Feta Cheese Appetizers dish is one of my favorites. Trust me, give it a go! Even if you mess it up, it'll still taste amazing.
Get in the kitchen and have some fun. I bet you will make some delicious Greek Recipes .
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese for this Baked Feta Pasta recipe?
While the recipe is called Baked Feta Pasta, using other cheeses can yield interesting results! Ricotta or goat cheese could work, but remember the flavour profile will change significantly.
Feta has that lovely tang and slight saltiness that really makes the dish sing think of it as swapping out your favourite Doctor Who!
I'm not a fan of cherry tomatoes. What else can I use in this recipe using feta cheese?
No problem, tomato alternatives are totally doable! You could roast other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even eggplant alongside the feta. Diced butternut squash could also be pretty stellar. It will add some sweetness and a different texture to the dish.
Just make sure they're cut into similar sized pieces so they cook evenly!
How do I store leftover Baked Feta Pasta, and how long will it last?
Leftovers are great for lunch the next day! Store your Baked Feta Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce up again. Microwave or gently heat it on the hob until warmed through.
Is this Baked Feta Pasta recipe vegetarian friendly? What about gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian, as it relies on cheese and veggies. To make it gluten-free, simply use your favourite gluten-free pasta. There are some great options available these days that taste just as good as the regular stuff.
Consider it the culinary equivalent of finding a decent pint in a Wetherspoons a happy surprise!
The sauce seems a bit dry. How can I make it creamier when making recipes using feta cheese?
A dry sauce is easily fixable! As mentioned in the recipe, always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water is your secret weapon! Add a little at a time to the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also help to bring it all together and add richness.
Can I add any protein to this Baked Feta Pasta to make it a more complete meal?
You certainly can! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be a delicious and easy addition. You could also add some cooked chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian protein boost. Think of it as giving your pasta a bit of a "glow-up" - adding some extra pizzazz to an already great dish!
Baked Feta Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes Basi
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35g |