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- 200g (7 oz) block of feta cheese - 300g (10.5 oz) pasta (fusilli or penne recommended) - 300g (10.5 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference) - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Grated lemon zest, for finishing touch Every ingredient plays a key role in creating the magic of baked feta pasta. The feta cheese is the star. It becomes creamy and rich when baked. The cherry tomatoes burst with flavor, adding sweetness. The pasta serves as a perfect base to soak up all the goodness. Garlic gives depth and aroma to the dish. Red pepper flakes add a nice kick that you can adjust. Extra virgin olive oil brings richness and ties all the flavors together. Don't forget salt and black pepper to enhance everything. Fresh basil leaves brighten the dish and add a pop of color. A sprinkle of lemon zest at the end adds a fresh finish. For the full recipe, don't miss the chance to try this delicious dish! First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps create a warm space for the dish. Next, grab a large baking dish. Pour in 300g of halved cherry tomatoes. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Pour in 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything well until the tomatoes are coated. Now, nestle a block of 200g feta cheese right in the middle of the tomatoes. Drizzle a bit more olive oil on the feta for added flavor. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You want the tomatoes to blister and the feta to soften and turn golden. While the feta and tomatoes bake, fill a large pot with salted water. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add 300g of pasta, either fusilli or penne. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later. When the feta and tomatoes are done, take the dish out of the oven. Using a fork, gently mash the softened feta and blistered tomatoes. This creates a creamy mixture. Next, fold the drained pasta into the dish. Make sure every piece is coated in the feta-tomato blend. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Enjoy! To make your baked feta pasta shine, adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Start with salt and pepper, then add more if needed. If you like a little heat, sprinkle more red pepper flakes. Each bite should sing with flavor. To ensure a creamy consistency, blend the feta and tomatoes well. Use a fork to mash them up after baking. This step creates a smooth sauce that clings to the pasta. It should have a velvety feel, making every forkful delightful. Serving your baked feta pasta in stylish bowls makes it look fancy. Try individual servings for a special touch. You can even layer it with fresh basil and a hint of lemon zest on top. This not only adds color but also gives a fresh flavor boost. For garnishes, fresh basil leaves work perfectly. They add a pop of green and a lovely aroma. A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the dish, making it eye-catching and appetizing. Enjoy your beautiful meal! {{image_4}} You can switch the pasta shape from fusilli or penne. Try farfalle or rigatoni for fun shapes. They hold sauce well, giving each bite flavor. If you need gluten-free options, use rice or chickpea pasta. Both types work great and taste delicious. Feel free to add more veggies. Spinach or zucchini blends well with the tomatoes. You can also mix in proteins like chicken or shrimp. For spice lovers, adjust the red pepper flakes. Add more for heat or skip it for a milder taste. These changes make the dish your own. After you enjoy your Baked Feta Pasta, store leftovers in airtight containers. This keeps the pasta fresh and tasty. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it. When stored properly, your dish can last for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. If you notice any change in smell or appearance, it’s best to toss it out. To reheat your Baked Feta Pasta, the oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place your pasta in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the moisture in and helps maintain the creamy texture. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warm. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just make sure to stir it halfway through to warm it evenly. If it feels dry, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to restore creaminess. Enjoy your dish just like it was fresh! Yes, you can! If you want to switch it up, try using goat cheese or cream cheese. Both add a nice creaminess. Goat cheese gives a tangy taste, while cream cheese offers a rich, smooth feel. You can also use ricotta for a lighter option. Just remember, each cheese changes the flavor a bit. Feel free to experiment! Absolutely! Baked Feta Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. It keeps well for 3-5 days in an airtight container. Just heat it up when you're ready to eat. This saves time on busy days and lets you enjoy a tasty meal without extra fuss. Yes, you can freeze it! To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warm. Just keep an eye on the texture; it may change a little. Baked Feta Pasta goes well with many sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great choice. You could also serve some garlic bread for a cozy touch. For drinks, a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish nicely. Enjoying these pairings enhances the meal experience! This recipe for Baked Feta Pasta combines fresh flavors for a delicious dish. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step baking, and tips to enhance texture. Try different pasta shapes or add veggies for variety. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later, and reheat without losing creaminess. This meal is great for any occasion. Enjoy making it and sharing with friends!

Baked Feta Pasta with Tomatoes

Indulge in the deliciousness of Cheesy Bliss Baked Feta Pasta, a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for any dinner. With just a handful of ingredients like feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite pasta, you'll create a creamy, savory masterpiece bursting with taste. Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for busy weeknights. Click to explore the full recipe and treat yourself to this cheesy delight!
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Ingredients
  

200g (7 oz) block of feta cheese

300g (10.5 oz) pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)

300g (10.5 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Grated lemon zest, for finishing touch

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), preparing to create a cozy baking environment for your ingredients.

    In a large baking dish, pour in the halved cherry tomatoes. Add the minced garlic, sprinkle the red pepper flakes, and pour in the olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir all ingredients together until evenly coated.

      Nestle the block of feta cheese right in the center of the tomato medley. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle a little olive oil over the feta as well.

        Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for the tomatoes to become blistered and the feta cheese to soften and take on a lovely golden hue.

          While your feta and tomatoes are baking, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to await its creamy union with the tomatoes and feta.

            Once your baking has completed, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork, gently mash together the softened feta and blistered tomatoes until they form a creamy mixture, blending the flavors beautifully.

              Fold in the drained pasta to the baking dish, ensuring that every piece is generously coated in the luscious feta-tomato blend. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.

                Serve your dish immediately, garnishing with vibrant fresh basil leaves and a delicate sprinkle of grated lemon zest to add a refreshing brightness.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve in individual bowls, and adorn each with an extra basil sprig and a zest of lemon to elevate the visual appeal. Enjoy your feast!