Crispy Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

This crispy baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines rich, tangy feta with sweet cherry tomatoes and a perfectly seasoned pasta. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 1 block (200g) of feta cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or spaghetti)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, place the block of feta in the center. Surround it with the halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the olive oil over the feta and tomatoes, then sprinkle with garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the feta is golden and the tomatoes are softened and blistered. The feta should be slightly crispy on top and creamy inside.

Cook the Pasta:
While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

Combine:
Once the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a spoon to gently mash the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss everything together, adding a little pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta.

Serve:
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if using) over the top, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, creamy goodness!

Tips for the Perfect Crispy Baked Feta Pasta:

• Pasta Choice: Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well in this dish. Pick your favorite!
• Feta Texture: For a creamier texture, opt for a block of feta with higher fat content. If you prefer a firmer texture, choose a lower-fat feta.
• Customization: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for extra flavor.