The smell of roasted tomatoes mingling with the salty tang of feta cheese is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. As you toss the ingredients together, the anticipation builds—this isn’t just any pasta; it’s feta tomato pasta, and it’s about to become your new favorite dish.
Picture this: a sunny afternoon, friends gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as you serve up bowls of this creamy, dreamy delight. Each forkful is bursting with flavor, and you can practically hear the chorus of “Mmm”s as everyone digs in. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This feta tomato pasta is a breeze to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its flavor profile combines creamy feta and sweet tomatoes for a delightful explosion
- Garnished with fresh basil, it looks stunning on any table
- Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for any season or occasion!
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family; my sister’s eyes widened as she took her first bite—it was pure joy.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta of Choice: I prefer penne or fusilli for their ability to hold onto sauce beautifully.
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Cherry Tomatoes: Choose plump, ripe tomatoes for that burst of sweetness when roasted.
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Feta Cheese: Use block feta instead of crumbled for creamier texture when baked.
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Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors; don’t skimp here!
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; opt for larger cloves for more robust flavor.
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Basil Leaves: Fresh basil gives that aromatic kick; feel free to add more if you’re a fan!
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the dish—don’t forget to taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and drizzle it with olive oil. This will help everything roast nicely.
Roast the Tomatoes and Feta: Toss cherry tomatoes and feta in olive oil, smashed garlic cloves, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly in the baking dish. Roast for about 25 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta turns golden.
Cook the Pasta: While your tomatoes are roasting away, cook your pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining!
Toss Together with Love: Once your roasted goodness comes out of the oven, combine it with your drained pasta in a large bowl. Add some reserved pasta water gradually to achieve your desired creaminess.
Add Fresh Basil & Serve Up!: Toss in freshly torn basil leaves right before serving. The aroma will be intoxicating! Plate up generous portions and watch everyone dive in eagerly.
This easy-to-make feta tomato pasta will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
You Must Know
- This flavorful feta tomato pasta is a game-changer for quick weeknight dinners
- The creamy feta and juicy tomatoes create a stunning dish bursting with flavor that even the pickiest eaters will love
- Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making clean-up practically non-existent!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting your feta and tomatoes together to intensify their flavors. While they roast, cook the pasta separately for perfectly tender noodles that absorb all that delicious sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different veggies or proteins based on what you have at home. Adding spinach or grilled chicken can elevate the dish, making it your own culinary masterpiece.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to keep it creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality feta for maximum creaminess; it makes all the difference in flavor
- Don’t skip roasting the garlic; it adds a sweet richness that elevates the entire dish
- Remember to taste as you go; seasoning can transform your pasta from good to unforgettable!
When I first made this feta tomato pasta, my friends devoured it within minutes! Their compliments were so overwhelming that I almost believed I was a gourmet chef—at least until someone asked for takeout instead of dessert.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or ricotta can also provide a delightful creaminess to your pasta.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pastas like penne or fusilli hold onto the sauce beautifully, enhancing each bite.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian; just ensure no meat is added during preparation!
Feta Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Feta tomato pasta is a delightful and creamy dish that perfectly balances the flavors of roasted tomatoes, rich feta cheese, and fragrant basil. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this recipe comes together effortlessly and promises to impress your family and friends. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 2 cups)
- 8 oz block feta cheese
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle olive oil in a baking dish.
- Toss cherry tomatoes, feta, garlic, salt, and pepper in the dish. Roast for 25 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is golden.
- Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Combine roasted ingredients with pasta in a large bowl. Gradually add reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
- Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
