Baked Feta Pasta Simple and Tasty Dinner Dish

If you’re craving a simple, yet delicious dinner, look no further than baked feta pasta. This dish combines rich feta cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a splash of olive oil for a meal that bursts with flavor. With just a few ingredients and an easy prep, you’ll have a delightful dinner ready in no time. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

– 200g feta cheese

– 300g pasta (your choice, such as penne or fusilli)

– 400g cherry tomatoes, halved

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

When I make Baked Feta Pasta, I always start with fresh ingredients. The feta cheese adds a creamy texture. I love using pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, as they hold the sauce well. Cherry tomatoes are my go-to for sweetness. They burst beautifully when baked, adding flavor and color. A good drizzle of olive oil ties everything together, keeping it moist and rich.

Seasoning Ingredients

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

– Salt and pepper to taste

Seasoning is key for this dish. I use minced garlic for a strong flavor. Dried oregano adds a nice herby touch. Red pepper flakes bring a bit of heat, so adjust them to your taste. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors. Remember, seasoning makes a huge difference!

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh basil leaves

– Grated Parmesan cheese

To finish, I love adding fresh basil leaves. They add a bright flavor and look great. Grated Parmesan cheese can also be a delicious touch. It melts slightly on top, adding richness. These garnishes take the dish to a new level. Feel free to skip them, but they make a nice addition!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish

First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This step is key. A hot oven makes everything cook evenly. Next, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place it on a flat surface. This will help when you arrange the ingredients.

Arranging Ingredients

Now it’s time to arrange the ingredients. Start by placing 200g of feta cheese in the center of the dish. Next, surround it with 400g of halved cherry tomatoes. This setup helps the cheese and tomatoes blend well. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the top. Make sure everything gets a nice coat. Then, sprinkle 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes over the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mix gives great flavor.

Cooking Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook 300g of pasta. Follow the package instructions. It should be al dente, which means firm to the bite. Before draining, reserve about a cup of pasta water. This water is like magic for your dish. It helps combine the baked ingredients later. Once the feta and tomatoes are done, take them out of the oven. Use a fork to mix the melted cheese and bursting tomatoes gently. Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish. Toss everything together. If it looks dry, add some reserved pasta water to adjust the mix. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, garnish with fresh basil leaves. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, if you like. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Baked Feta

To achieve the right texture, use good quality feta cheese. Bake it until it is soft and golden, about 25-30 minutes. The cheese should melt but not turn too runny. For added flavor, fresh herbs are great. Try using basil, thyme, or parsley. A sprinkle of dried oregano adds a nice touch too.

Cooking Pasta to Perfection

Cook your pasta until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Timing is key; check the package for exact times. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps mix the sauce later and gives it a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Baked Feta Pasta with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A side of roasted vegetables also works well. For drinks, a nice white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon is refreshing.

Variations

Different Cheese Options

You can switch up the cheese in this dish. Using goat cheese gives a tangy twist. The creamy texture melts wonderfully as you bake it. You can also add cream cheese. This will make the sauce richer and smoother. Just mix it with the feta for a delightful taste.

Vegetable Additions

Adding vegetables can enhance this pasta. Incorporating spinach or kale boosts nutrition and flavor. These greens wilt nicely in the oven. You can also toss in bell peppers for a sweet crunch. They add color and make the dish more vibrant. Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies.

Protein Boosts

For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Simply mix them in after baking the feta and tomatoes. This makes the dish heartier and more filling. If you prefer vegetarian options, chickpeas or lentils work great too. They add texture and keep the meal wholesome.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Baked Feta Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and air out. Put it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Leftovers last about three to four days in the fridge.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. The best method is using the oven. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the pasta in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Just heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the flavors intact.

Freezing Options

Yes, you can freeze Baked Feta Pasta! To do this, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, move it to the fridge overnight to thaw. Then, reheat it in the oven or microwave. Enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for Baked Feta Pasta?

You can use many types of pasta for this dish. Here are some great options:

– Penne

– Fusilli

– Farfalle

– Ziti

Penne and fusilli hold sauce well. They let the cheese and tomatoes mix perfectly. Farfalle adds fun shapes, while ziti gives a hearty bite. Choose your favorite!

Can I make Baked Feta Pasta in advance?

Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Here are some tips:

– Cook the pasta and let it cool.

– Prepare the feta and tomato mix. Store it in the fridge.

– Combine everything when you are ready to bake.

This saves time on busy nights. Just bake and serve!

Is Baked Feta Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Here are some benefits and storage tips:

– It stays fresh for up to four days in the fridge.

– Store it in airtight containers.

– Reheat in the microwave or oven.

You can enjoy it all week long!

In this post, we explored Baked Feta Pasta. We covered the main ingredients like feta, pasta, and tomatoes. The guide included step-by-step cooking methods and tips for perfect results. Variations allowed for creativity with cheeses and veggies. Proper storage and reheating advice ensured your meal stays fresh. With these insights, you can make a dish that impresses. Enjoy the flavors, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twis