There’s something magical about feta pasta that transforms an ordinary meal into a delightful experience. Imagine creamy, tangy feta melting into a pool of luscious sauce, enveloping perfectly cooked pasta with its inviting aroma. Each bite bursts with flavor, reminding you of sun-soaked Mediterranean afternoons and good times shared with friends.
The first time I made this dish, my kitchen smelled so heavenly that even the cat showed interest—now that’s quite a compliment! The beauty of feta pasta lies not just in its taste but also in how effortlessly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring you can whip it up even on your busiest days
- The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, making every forkful a delight
- Its vibrant presentation will impress anyone at your dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences or additional ingredients
I remember serving this dish at a family gathering, and the chorus of “Yum!” from my cousins was music to my ears.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Use your favorite type; penne or fusilli works best for holding onto the sauce.
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Feta Cheese: Opt for high-quality feta; the creaminess really elevates the dish.
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Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes add freshness and color.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and health benefits.
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Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant touch; feel free to use parsley if basil isn’t available.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the overall aroma and depth of flavor.
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Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for an optional hint of heat; adjust to your spice preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and drizzle it with olive oil. Toss in your cherry tomatoes along with crumbled feta cheese.
Roast this delightful mixture for about 25 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta softens beautifully. This creates a creamy sauce that sings of Mediterranean bliss!
While that’s happening, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water; you’ll need it later for that perfectly creamy consistency.
Once the tomatoes and feta are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly while you add minced garlic and red pepper flakes into the mix for an aromatic kick.
Combine the roasted mixture with your drained pasta directly in the baking dish. Stir well while adding reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired creaminess.
Finally, toss in fresh basil before serving. You can add extra olive oil if desired for an extra layer of flavor!
Enjoy this delightful fetapasta while it’s warm—it’s best enjoyed straight out of the oven!
You Must Know
- This delightful feta pasta dish transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, dreamy feast
- The rich flavors meld beautifully, and the vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal
- It’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the feta and tomatoes together for maximum flavor. Meanwhile, boil your pasta separately to ensure everything comes together perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried ones or add spinach for extra greens. You can even sprinkle in some chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover feta pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use high-quality feta cheese; it makes all the difference in taste and creaminess
- Don’t overcook your pasta; al dente is ideal for better texture
- Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for an aromatic finish
Sometimes, I whip this up when friends come over, and their faces light up—the compliments keep me going every time!
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for feta pasta?
Short pastas like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well and provide great texture.
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli can add flavor and nutrition.
Is feta pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and tastes even better after flavors meld overnight.
Feta Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Feta pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the tanginess of feta cheese with the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal. Each bite bursts with Mediterranean flavor, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it warm straight from the oven or savor the leftovers as a tasty lunch option.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 8 oz feta cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle olive oil in a baking dish and add cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese.
- 2. Roast for 25 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta softens.
- 3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- 4. Once roasted, mix in minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
- 5. Combine pasta with the roasted mixture in the baking dish, adding reserved pasta water gradually until creamy.
- 6. Stir in chopped basil before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
