Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) dried pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint (570g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pasta water, reserved
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 ounces (115g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for whipped feta)
- 1 tablespoon milk (or cream)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup (packed) fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil (for basil oil)
- 1 clove garlic, optional (for basil oil)
- Fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to burst and soften (8-10 minutes).
- If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cherry tomatoes. Toss to coat. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- In a food processor or blender, combine feta, olive oil, milk (or cream), and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with a little more milk if needed.
- In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, olive oil, and garlic (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Divide pasta among bowls. Top with a dollop of whipped feta, a drizzle of basil oil, and fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.