Baked Feta Pasta Reinvented

If you're in search of a vibrant and delectable dish that can effortlessly transition from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive gathering, look no further than the Feta Fiesta Pasta Bake. This dish is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures, combining creamy feta cheese, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a medley of spices to create an irresistible pasta experience.

Discover the vibrant flavors of Feta Fiesta Pasta Bake, a perfect dish for any occasion! Combining creamy feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, this pasta bake is both hearty and simple to prepare. Ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser packed with nutritional benefits. From creamy textures to a satisfying crunch, this dish offers a delightful culinary journey that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

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Ingredients

250g Feta cheese (block)

400g Cherry tomatoes (halved)

3 cloves Garlic (thinly sliced)

1 tsp Dried oregano

1 tsp Chilli flakes (adjust to taste)

3 tbsp Olive oil

Salt and black pepper (to taste)

300g Pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

2 cups Baby spinach (roughly chopped)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tbsp Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)

¼ cup Toasted pine nuts (for added crunch)

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to facilitate easy cleanup later.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced garlic, dried oregano, and chilli flakes. Drizzle with the olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper. Mix everything until the tomatoes are evenly coated.

Add Feta: Create a nest in the center of the tomato mixture and gently place the block of feta cheese there. Drizzle a touch more olive oil over the feta and add a sprinkle of black pepper to enhance its flavor.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. You’re aiming for blistered tomatoes and a golden, soft feta that can easily be mashed.

Cook Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside.

Combine Pasta and Vegetables: After the feta and tomatoes are finished baking, take them out of the oven. Using a fork, mash the feta into the blistered tomatoes to create a creamy sauce. Fold in the chopped baby spinach and the lemon zest until everything is well incorporated.

Mix with Pasta: Carefully add the drained pasta to the baking dish. Mix thoroughly to ensure that all the pasta is coated with the creamy feta-tomato mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Final Bake (Optional): If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the combined pasta mixture. Return the dish to the oven for an extra 10 minutes to allow the nuts to brown slightly.

Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and extra chilli flakes if desired. Serve warm and indulge in the delightful flavors of your Feta Fiesta Pasta Bake!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 45 min | Serves 4