Envision this: the aroma of roasted cherry tomatoes mingling with the creamy tang of feta cheese, creating a symphony of Mediterranean flavors.
There’s something incredibly comforting about this baked feta pasta, a dish that’s both simple to prepare and indulgent to savor.
As the oven works its magic, the ingredients transform into a luscious sauce that clings to each strand of pasta, promising a delightful meal.
Let’s bring this dish to life!
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Baking dish
- 1 Pot
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 200 grams Feta cheese block
- 250 grams Cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes
- 250 grams Pasta of choice
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the Baked Feta Pasta, you can follow this timeline:
- Reading the Recipe: 5 minutes
- Start by reading through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients needed.
- Prep Work: 10 minutes
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mince the garlic and chop the basil leaves.
- Place the feta cheese block in the center of a baking dish and surround it with cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes over the dish.
- Baking: 30 minutes
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is soft.
- Pasta Cooking: 10 minutes (can overlap with baking time)
- While the feta is baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Mixing & Combining: 5 minutes
- Remove the baking dish from the oven.
- Use a wooden spoon to mix the feta and tomatoes together.
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the baking dish and toss to combine.
- Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Resting: 5 minutes
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the feta cheese block in the center of a baking dish.
Surround the feta with cherry tomatoes.
Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes.
Sprinkle minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes over the dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is soft.
While the feta is baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and use a wooden spoon to mix the feta and tomatoes together.
Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the baking dish and toss to combine.
Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the rich, savory sauce.
- Green Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and invigorating contrast.
- Grilled Vegetables: Complement the dish with a side of smoky grilled vegetables for added depth of flavor.
- Olive Tapenade: Include a small serving of olive tapenade on the side for a tangy, Mediterranean touch.
- Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges to squeeze over the dish for a bright, citrusy finish.
Storage
Store leftover baked feta pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat gently to prevent the feta from drying out.
Add fresh basil before serving.
Freezing
To freeze baked feta pasta, let it cool completely.
Then transfer it to an airtight container.
Label and freeze for up to three months.
Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat baked feta pasta, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat.
Stir occasionally. Add a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. This helps prevent drying out.
Final Thoughts
Feta cheese is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can enhance a wide range of dishes.
Its unique taste and crumbly texture make it a favorite in Mediterranean cuisine.
Whether used in salads, pasta, or as part of a charcuterie board, feta adds a delightful tanginess.
When selecting feta, opt for high-quality varieties to guarantee the best flavor and texture.
Store it properly to maintain freshness. Remember, a little feta goes a long way in enriching your meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Feta Cheese Suitable for Lactose-Intolerant Individuals?
You’re wondering if it’s suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. Feta has lower lactose content due to fermentation, making it often tolerable. Test your tolerance by consuming small amounts, and consult a nutritionist for personalized advice.
Can Feta Cheese Be Substituted in Vegan Recipes?
You can substitute feta cheese in vegan recipes by using crumbled tofu or almond-based feta alternatives. Make certain you choose a product with a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor to maintain the dish’s intended taste and consistency.
What Is the Origin of Feta Cheese?
You’re curious about its origins. Feta cheese hails from Greece, where it has been crafted for centuries. Artisans traditionally use sheep’s milk, sometimes mixed with goat’s milk, to produce this tangy, crumbly delight.
How Long Does Feta Cheese Last After Opening?
After opening, store it in brine or airtight container in the fridge. It lasts about 5-7 days. Confirm the cheese remains submerged in brine to maintain freshness, flavor, and texture. Always check for any signs of spoilage.
Is Feta Cheese Typically Made From Cow’s Milk?
You might think feta cheese is made from cow’s milk, but traditionally it’s crafted from sheep’s or goat’s milk. This gives feta its distinct tangy flavor and crumbly texture. Cow’s milk feta lacks the same authentic taste.
Baked Feta Pasta
Equipment
- 1 Baking dish
- 1 pot
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 200 grams Feta cheese block
- 250 grams Cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes
- 250 grams Pasta of choice
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the feta cheese block in the center of a baking dish.
- Surround the feta with cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes over the dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is soft.
- While the feta is baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and use a wooden spoon to mix the feta and tomatoes together.
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the baking dish and toss to combine.
- Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
