Description
This simple yet flavorful Feta Pasta recipe combines creamy roasted feta cheese with burst cherry tomatoes and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of red pepper flakes, it’s a comforting and easy one-dish meal ready in 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta
For the Sauce
- 8 oz block feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (1 pint)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, mix together cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
- Roast Mixture: Place the baking dish in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta cheese is soft and slightly golden.
- Cook Pasta: While the tomato and feta mixture roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne or fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: When the roasting is complete, carefully mix the roasted tomato and feta mixture with the cooked pasta directly in the baking dish, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately while warm. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- For a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Fresh basil or parsley can be added as a garnish to enhance freshness.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the oven to avoid drying out.
