Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta: A Mediterranean Delight in Your Kitchen!

Craving a dish that’s both effortless and extraordinary? Look no further than Baked Feta Pasta, the culinary sensation that’s taking home kitchens by storm. This simple yet sophisticated recipe transforms a humble block of feta and juicy cherry tomatoes into a creamy, tangy sauce that coats every strand of pasta with pure Mediterranean magic.

Imagine the aroma of roasted tomatoes and herbs wafting through your home as the feta slowly melts into a velvety dream. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll create a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a seaside taverna. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing dinner guests, this Baked Feta Pasta is sure to become your new go-to recipe.

Originating from Finland, this dish gained worldwide popularity through social media, showcasing how a few quality ingredients can create something truly spectacular. The combination of salty feta, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs not only delights the palate but also provides a good dose of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes. Pair this pasta with a crisp Greek white wine like Assyrtiko for the ultimate Mediterranean experience.

Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

Ingredients:

8 ounces dried pasta (penne or your choice)

1 block (8 ounces) Greek feta cheese

2 pints cherry tomatoes

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.

3. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the seasoned tomatoes.

4. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the feta and sprinkle with black pepper.

5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is soft and golden on top.

6. While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

7. Remove the baking dish from the oven and immediately add the cooked pasta to the dish.

8. Gently stir everything together, breaking up the feta as you mix. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

10. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Notes:

• For a creamier sauce, try using Danish feta instead of Greek.
• Add a handful of spinach or arugula at the end for extra nutrition and color.
• Leftover pasta can be reheated in the microwave or enjoyed cold as a pasta salad.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe

Calories: 420

Total Fat: 24g

Saturated Fat: 10g

Cholesterol: 50mg

Sodium: 650mg

Total Carbohydrates: 40g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

Protein: 15g

Other Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Equipment: 9×13-inch baking dish, large pot for pasta

Estimated cost per serving: $3.50

Total cost: $14.00

In Conclusion, Baked Feta Pasta

In conclusion, Baked Feta Pasta is more than just a trend; it’s a testament to the beauty of simple, quality ingredients coming together to create something truly special. With its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and impressive presentation, this dish is set to become a beloved staple in kitchens around the world.

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