Are you ready to impress your taste buds? This Baked Feta Tomato Pasta recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. You only need a few simple ingredients like pasta, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes. With easy step-by-step instructions, you’ll whip up a creamy, flavorful dish in no time. Whether you’re a busy parent or a novice cook, this recipe makes tasty meals fun and stress-free. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 200g pasta (fusilli or penne)
– 200g block of feta cheese
– 400g cherry tomatoes
Seasonings and Garnishes
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper
– Fresh basil leaves and grated parmesan cheese
The main ingredients in this dish create a tasty base. You start with 200g of pasta, using either fusilli or penne. These shapes hold the sauce well and offer a great bite. Next, you need a 200g block of feta cheese. This cheese brings a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Cherry tomatoes are key in this recipe. You’ll need 400g, and I suggest using a mix of colors. This adds visual appeal and a variety of sweet flavors.
Seasonings boost the taste. You’ll use 4 cloves of minced garlic for its strong aroma. Olive oil gives smoothness and helps the flavors blend. Don’t forget salt and pepper for balance.
For a fresh touch, add some basil leaves on top when serving. If you want a little extra flavor, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the dish before serving. It’s a simple yet elegant way to elevate your meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Dish
1. First, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). This step is key for even cooking.
2. In a large baking dish, combine 400g of halved cherry tomatoes and 4 cloves of minced garlic. This mix brings great flavor.
Assembling Ingredients
1. Next, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. If you like spice, add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes.
2. Toss the mixture gently to coat the tomatoes well. This helps the flavors to blend nicely.
3. Place a 200g block of feta cheese in the center of the dish, surrounded by the tomatoes. Drizzle a little olive oil over the feta and season with more salt and pepper.
Baking and Mixing
1. Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. The tomatoes should be blistered and soft, and the feta should melt and turn golden.
2. While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook 200g of pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water. Follow the package instructions until the pasta is al dente.
3. Once baked, take the dish out of the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta into the tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce.
4. Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the rich feta-tomato sauce.
5. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, adding fresh basil leaves and grated parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dish
Choosing the right pasta is key for texture. I love fusilli or penne. They hold sauce well and add a nice bite. Cook the pasta until al dente for the best result. This way, it stays firm when mixed with the sauce.
Next, let’s talk feta. Pick a quality block of feta cheese, ideally from Greece. It should be creamy and not too crumbly. This cheese melts beautifully and makes the sauce rich. Check for freshness by looking for a clean, white color and a good smell.
Enhancing Flavor
If you want a kick, chili flakes are great. But if you prefer milder heat, try smoked paprika. It adds depth without the spice. You can also leave them out entirely for a sweeter taste.
Fresh herbs can boost aroma and flavor. Basil is a classic choice for this pasta. You can also try parsley or oregano. Chop them finely and sprinkle them on just before serving. This adds a fresh pop that makes the dish sing.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the pasta you use. Fusilli and penne are great choices. But you can also try farfalle or even spaghetti. Each type brings its own fun twist to the dish.
If you want a different cheese, goat cheese works well. It adds a tangy flavor. You can also use ricotta for a creamy touch. Just keep in mind that flavors will change a bit.
Additional Ingredients
Add veggies to boost nutrition and taste. Spinach adds a nice color and flavor. Bell peppers bring sweetness and crunch. You can toss them in before baking.
For protein, grilled chicken is a good option. It makes the meal heartier. Shrimp also works nicely and cooks quickly. Both options pair well with the feta and tomatoes.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your baked feta tomato pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps the dish tasty. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing the container. In the fridge, this dish lasts about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you have a few options. The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat it to 180°C (350°F). Place the pasta in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the pasta from drying out and keeps the sauce creamy.
You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
If you want to freeze baked feta tomato pasta, do it right after cooking. Store it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and follow the reheating tips above.
FAQs
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, you can use frozen tomatoes and frozen feta for this dish. Just remember to thaw them first. This may change the texture a bit, but the flavors will still be great.
How to make it vegan?
To make this dish vegan, swap the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Make sure to check the pasta brand for egg-free options.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal pairings (sides, salads, or sauces)
This baked feta tomato pasta pairs well with a simple green salad. A side of garlic bread also makes a great choice. If you want extra flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze on top.
Meal prep ideas with baked feta tomato pasta
This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. For an easy lunch, pack it in a container with some fresh basil.
This baked feta and tomato pasta is simple and delicious. You learned about fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and garlic. I shared tips to choose the best pasta and ways to enhance the dish with herbs. You discovered fun variations and how to store leftovers for later.
With these easy steps, you can create a meal everyone will enjoy. Try it out, and make it your own! Enjoy cooking and share your delicious results with others.
