When it comes to comfort food, oven feta pasta is a dish that never disappoints. This easy-to-make recipe combines the creaminess of baked feta cheese with the rich flavors of tomatoes and aromatic herbs, creating a delightful meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, oven feta pasta is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this delectable dish and see how you can prepare it at home.
Ingredients
To make this oven feta pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
– 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
– 1 block (about 8 ounces) of feta cheese
– 2 cups of cherry tomatoes
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful dish that is both creamy and satisfying. The combination of feta cheese and tomatoes forms a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the oven-safe baking dish. Place the block of feta cheese in the center, surrounded by cherry tomatoes and minced garlic.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the ingredients in the baking dish. Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and pepper evenly on top.
4. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes golden brown.
5. Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash together the melted feta cheese and roasted tomatoes until smooth, creating a creamy sauce.
6. Add the drained pasta into the baking dish with the sauce, tossing everything together until well combined. If necessary, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For an added kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over your dish.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy your homemade oven feta pasta as a delightful meal that everyone will love! This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners with loved ones. The combination of flavors in this dish ensures that it will become a favorite in your household!
Tips and tricks
To make the best oven feta pasta, consider these helpful tips. First, choose a block of high-quality feta cheese. A creamy, flavorful feta will enhance your dish significantly. Second, use fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and spinach for added flavor and nutrition. When roasting, ensure the vegetables are evenly spread out on the baking sheet to promote consistent cooking. Third, don’t forget to season generously with olive oil, salt, and pepper before baking. This step enhances the flavors beautifully. Lastly, serve your oven feta pasta with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for oven feta pasta?
To prepare oven feta pasta, you will need a block of feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, uncooked pasta of your choice, olive oil, garlic cloves, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, and seasoning such as salt and pepper. You can also add other vegetables for more flavor. The simplicity of these ingredients makes this dish both easy to prepare and delicious.
How long does it take to cook oven feta pasta?
The total cooking time for oven feta pasta is approximately 30 minutes. Start by roasting the tomatoes and feta in the oven for around 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). While that cooks, boil your pasta separately according to package instructions. Once everything is ready, combine them together and finish with fresh herbs for a delightful meal.
Can I customize my oven feta pasta recipe?
Absolutely! One of the great things about oven feta pasta is its versatility. You can swap out cherry tomatoes for bell peppers or zucchini if you prefer different flavors. Additionally, adding cooked chicken or shrimp can make it a heartier dish. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
This recipe is a delightful combination of flavors that come together effortlessly in the oven. The creamy feta melts beautifully with the roasted tomatoes, creating a rich sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. With just a few simple ingredients and steps involved in making oven feta pasta, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressive gatherings alike. Enjoy this comforting dish any time you crave something delicious yet easy!