Save A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish featuring creamy baked feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and briny olives, all tossed with al dente pasta for a simple yet irresistible meal.
This dish quickly became a favorite in my household for its ease and bold flavors.
Ingredients
- Feta Cheese: 200 g block
- Cherry Tomatoes: 500 g, halved
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Short Pasta: 300 g (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
- Kalamata Olives: 100 g pitted, halved
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Dried Oregano: 1 tsp
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Fresh Basil Leaves: to serve
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Arrange Ingredients:
- Place the feta block in the center of a baking dish and surround it with cherry tomatoes and olives
- Add Seasonings:
- Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper
- Bake:
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and soft
- Cook Pasta:
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water then drain
- Mash Sauce:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork to create a creamy sauce
- Combine:
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately
Save This dish brings the family together with its comforting and vibrant flavors enjoyed by all ages.
Notes
Excellent wine pairing includes a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé to complement the dish's flavors.
Required Tools
Baking dish, large pot, colander, mixing spoon or fork, chefs knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 480 calories, 19 g total fat, 56 g carbohydrates, 17 g protein
Save This baked feta pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying bite.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?
Feta provides a unique creamy tang; alternatives like goat cheese may alter the flavor and texture significantly.
- → How do I ensure the feta becomes creamy and soft?
Baking the feta block surrounded by tomatoes and olives at 200°C for about 25-30 minutes softens it perfectly.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta varieties to accommodate dietary needs without compromising taste.
- → What herbs complement this pasta combination?
Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic touch, while dried oregano enriches the overall Mediterranean flavor.