Step 1: Prepare the Feta and Tomatoes
In a large baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Surround the feta with halved cherry tomatoes, making sure they are evenly distributed. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and feta, followed by sprinkling the minced garlic evenly across the surface.
Next, sprinkle dried oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the entire mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything lightly together so the tomatoes are coated with the seasonings.
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes and Feta
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta cheese starts to soften and turn golden on the edges. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—bubbles of creamy goodness should form in the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Step 4: Mix the Pasta with Roasted Ingredients
Once the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a fork or spoon to mash the roasted tomatoes and feta together until they form a creamy sauce. Stir well to combine the juices, olive oil, and cheese into a smooth, luscious consistency. If needed, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin the sauce slightly, making it perfectly creamy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Feta Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish with the roasted tomatoes and feta. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Let it sit for a minute to absorb the flavors. If you feel the sauce is too thick, use a little more pasta water to loosen it.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer your creamy feta pasta to plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. A final drizzle of olive oil adds a touch of richness.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality feta: Opt for good-quality Greek or Bulgarian feta to achieve the best flavor.
- Tomato variety: Cherry tomatoes work wonderfully in this recipe, but you can also experiment with grape tomatoes or plum tomatoes.
- Customize the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance. A pinch adds just a subtle heat.
- Leftover potential: This pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently and add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Feta Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or for an intimate dinner gathering, the vibrant flavors and creamy texture will make you go back for seconds. Perfect for those seeking an easy yet indulgent pasta dish, this recipe is a winner in every way. Dive into the rich Mediterranean taste and elevate your cooking with simplicity and flavor!
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