When you first bite into Baked Feta Pasta, you're greeted with a burst of flavors and a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. The tanginess of the feta cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend that's hard to resist.
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Baked Feta Pasta
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Baked Feta Pasta
Ingredients
- 300 g 10 oz cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 150 g 5 oz feta cheese
- 200 g 7 oz pasta
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- a pinch of chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200C.
- Add tomatoes into a baking pan. Drizzle tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and move to the sides of the dish.300 g 10 oz cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup olive oil, salt and pepper
- Place the feta block in the middle. Bake for 30 minutes.150 g 5 oz feta cheese
- Add chili flakes, tomato paste and garlic to the tomatoes. Mash with a fork first and then blend.a pinch of chili flakes, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 2 garlic cloves
- Cook pasta half the time listed in the instructions, set ½ cup pasta water aside.200 g 7 oz pasta
- Mix pasta with sauce and pasta water. Bake for 10 minutes.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 300 g (10 oz) cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 150 g (5 oz) feta cheese
- 200 g (7 oz) pasta
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- a pinch of chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- salt and pepper
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 200C.
Add tomatoes into a baking pan. Drizzle tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and move to the sides of the dish.
Place the feta block in the middle. Bake for 30 minutes.
Add chili flakes, tomato paste and garlic to the tomatoes. Mash with a fork first and then blend.
Cook pasta half the time listed in the instructions, set ½ cup pasta water aside.
Mix pasta with sauce and pasta water. Bake for 10 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Perfect Side Dishes for Baked Feta Pasta
While baked feta pasta is a star on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice. The crispness of the greens and the acidity of the dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.
Bread Options to Complement Your Pasta
Another great option is garlic bread or a crusty baguette. The crunchy texture of the bread pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta sauce, allowing you to soak up every last bit of deliciousness. You could also opt for a simple bruschetta with tomatoes and basil for an Italian-inspired feast.
Beverages That Pair Well
Don't forget about beverages! A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, enhances the dish’s flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime can be equally delightful.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Selecting the Right Ingredients
The key to a successful baked feta pasta lies in the quality of your ingredients. Opt for ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes and a good-quality block of feta cheese. Avoid feta crumbles, as they don't melt as well and won't give you that creamy texture you're aiming for.
Cooking Techniques for Optimal Flavor
When baking the tomatoes and feta, make sure to use an oven-safe baking dish that allows for even cooking. Drizzling the tomatoes with olive oil ensures they roast beautifully, releasing their natural sweetness. Don’t rush the process; baking for a full 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Enhancing the Dish with Extra Additions
Feel free to get creative with additions. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can add a burst of freshness. If you like your pasta extra spicy, a pinch more of chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce can do the trick. And for a protein boost, consider adding some cooked chicken or shrimp.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary slightly, but that’s part of the fun of cooking.
What Types of Pasta Work Best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are ideal for this dish. They hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying bite. However, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the baked feta and tomato mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, simply cook your pasta, reheat the sauce, and combine them.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
Isn't a creamy pasta casserole just the best?! I love how pasta can be some of the creamiest, most delicate flavors from a simple and relatively boring main ingredient. It's magic. If you're interested in more magical pasta casseroles, check out these simple recipes:
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