Baked Feta Pasta

Feta Fiesta Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy feta melts into the pasta, creating a rich sauce that clings to each piece, while the roasted cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity. This dish is not just visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout option for gatherings, where it can serve as a main course or a side dish.

Dive into this Feta Fiesta Pasta, a delightful dish that combines creamy feta and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor. With easy steps from baking your feta to mixing with perfectly cooked penne, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers. Garnish with fresh basil and optional Parmesan for an extra touch. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests! Ready in just 50 minutes, it's a delicious weeknight success!

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Ingredients

200g block of feta cheese

300g penne pasta

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes. Nestle the block of feta cheese in the center. Drizzle with olive oil and add minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the tomatoes to coat.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the feta is golden and soft and the tomatoes are roasted and blistered.

Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Combine: Once the feta and tomatoes are baked, remove the dish from the oven. Mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork until creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired consistency.

Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the baking dish and toss until the pasta is well coated with the feta-tomato sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, lemon zest for a zesty kick, and optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4