If you’ve scrolled through TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen the trend for Baked Feta Tomato Pasta. This dish is not just a viral hit; it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal you can whip up in no time. With just a few key ingredients—like feta, cherry tomatoes, and your choice of pasta—you’re on your way to a tasty dinner. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
– 200g block of feta cheese
– 400g cherry tomatoes (a vibrant mix of colors is ideal)
– 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Zest of 1 lemon, for brightness
For this recipe, you will need some simple yet flavorful ingredients. First, choose your pasta. Penne or fusilli works best. Both shapes hold the sauce well. Next, grab a block of feta cheese. It melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
Cherry tomatoes are key. Use a mix of colors for a vibrant look. You’ll also need garlic for flavor. Mince four cloves finely for the best taste. Extra virgin olive oil brings richness. Add one-fourth cup to your dish.
Dried oregano adds a nice touch. Just one teaspoon will do. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Fresh spinach will add nutrition and color; about two cups chopped will work great. For garnish, use fresh basil leaves. They add aroma and flavor. Lastly, lemon zest brightens the dish, making it pop.
Make sure to gather everything before you start. This will make cooking smooth and easy. Enjoy the process of bringing these ingredients together!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheating your oven is key for even baking. When the oven is hot, it cooks food properly. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) now. This step helps the feta and tomatoes roast perfectly.
Prepare the Tomato Mixture
In a large, oven-safe baking dish, mix the following:
– 400g cherry tomatoes
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Stir well until the tomatoes are coated with oil and seasonings. This mixture adds great flavor to the dish.
Baking the Feta and Tomatoes
Make a small nest in the center of the tomatoes. Place the block of feta cheese in this spot. Now, put the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for blistered tomatoes and soft feta with a golden hue.
Cooking the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook 200g of pasta. I recommend penne or fusilli. Boil the pasta according to package directions until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but cooked through. Drain and set aside.
Combining Ingredients
When the baking time is up, take the dish out of the oven. Use a fork to mash the baked feta into the tomatoes. Mix them into a creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach to the dish. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dish right from the baking dish for a rustic look. For an elegant touch, plate individual servings. Top with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest. This brightens the dish and adds a nice finish. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Selecting Quality Ingredients
Choosing the right ingredients is key to great flavor. Start with fresh tomatoes. Look for ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes. Their sweetness shines in the dish. A mix of colors adds beauty, too. Next, pick good-quality feta cheese. A block of creamy feta melts perfectly, giving a rich taste. Avoid crumbled feta; it lacks the same creaminess. Fresh ingredients elevate your meal and make a big difference.
Modifying Flavor Profiles
Want to add your twist? Spices are your best friend. Try adding red pepper flakes for heat. A dash of smoked paprika offers a nice depth. You can also toss in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. For a zesty kick, add lemon juice or zest. If you like garlic, add more cloves for a stronger flavor. Feel free to experiment; make it your own!
Perfecting the Texture
The right creaminess is vital for this dish. When you mash the baked feta into the tomatoes, mix well. Aim for a smooth, rich sauce. If it feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water for balance. Incorporating fresh spinach helps with texture and adds nutrients. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta. This creates a luscious, creamy experience that you’ll love!
Variations
Vegan Option
You can easily make this dish vegan. Just swap the feta cheese for a plant-based option. Look for brands that mimic the creamy texture of feta. You can also make a homemade version using blended tofu, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast. This gives you the salty flavor without dairy.
Additional Vegetables
Feel free to jazz up your baked feta tomato pasta with extra veggies. Seasonal choices work best. Try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. Just chop them up and mix them in with the tomatoes. They will roast nicely and add more color and taste.
Protein Additions
Want to make this dish heartier? Add some protein! You can toss in cooked chicken or shrimp. They add great flavor and make the meal more filling. If you prefer plant-based options, try adding canned beans like chickpeas or white beans. They blend well and boost the nutrition.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep the flavor fresh. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat it again, just remember to check for any signs of spoilage first.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist. Cover it with foil and heat for about 15 minutes. In the microwave, heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes. Stir in between to avoid uneven heating.
Freezing Guidelines
Yes, you can freeze this dish! First, let it cool completely. Then, pack it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it following the methods above for best taste.
FAQs
What pasta can I use for Baked Feta Tomato Pasta?
You can use many types of pasta for this dish. I recommend penne or fusilli. These shapes hold sauce well and add texture. You could also try farfalle or rotini. They are fun shapes that mix nicely with the sauce.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs. Dried oregano works well, but the flavor might change. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. This is because dried herbs are more concentrated. You might miss the bright taste of fresh herbs, but it will still be tasty.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Baked Feta Tomato Pasta gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer options like brown rice or chickpea pasta. They cook well and taste great. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times.
What can I serve with Baked Feta Tomato Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad. A green salad with lemon vinaigrette is fresh and light. You can also serve crusty bread for dipping in the sauce. Garlic bread is another great choice to soak up the yummy flavors.
This blog covered a tasty pasta dish with baked feta and tomatoes. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. Remember to choose fresh items for the best taste. You can modify flavors or make a vegan version too. This dish is easy to store and reheat, so enjoy leftovers. Try different pasta shapes and herbs to mix things up. With these ideas, you can make a meal everyone will love. Happy cooking!
