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For this dish, you need the following key items: - 200g (7 oz) block of feta cheese - 300g (10.5 oz) pasta (fusilli or penne work well) - 300g (10.5 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - 1/4 cup olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil, for garnish - Grated lemon zest, for finishing These ingredients work together to create a dish that is both creamy and flavorful. The feta cheese melts beautifully, adding a rich texture. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness when baked. You can take your baked feta pasta to the next level by adding: - Different types of olive oil, like garlic-infused or chili-infused - Fresh herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or parsley for extra flavor - Cheese variations, like mozzarella or goat cheese for a twist These enhancements allow you to customize the dish to your taste. Try different combinations to find what you love most. For the full recipe, check the details above. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat is perfect for baking. 2. Grab a large baking dish. Pour in the halved cherry tomatoes. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. 3. Season with salt and pepper. Then, stir everything together until it’s mixed well. 4. Place the block of feta cheese right in the center of the tomatoes. Drizzle a little olive oil on top of the feta. 1. Bake the dish in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Watch for the tomatoes to blister and the feta to turn soft and slightly golden. 2. While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta. Boil salted water in a pot. Add the pasta and cook until it's al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. 1. When the baking time is up, take the dish out of the oven. Use a fork to gently mash the feta and tomatoes together. Mix until it’s creamy and smooth. 2. Now, add the cooked pasta to the baking dish. Toss it all together, coating the pasta in the creamy feta-tomato mix. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with more salt, pepper, or red flakes. 3. Serve it up right away. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated lemon zest for that extra pop of flavor. To get the best feta, use a block that is firm but creamy. Make sure to check the feta as it bakes. You want it soft and slightly golden, but not brown. Overcooking makes it grainy. Keep an eye on it after 25 minutes to avoid this. Cooking pasta al dente is key. This means it should be firm to the bite. Start by boiling water and add a good amount of salt. This makes the pasta taste better. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. For a beautiful presentation, serve the pasta in a large bowl. Top with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest. This adds color and flavor. Pair with a simple green salad or crusty bread to make it a full meal. You can also add a splash of balsamic glaze for extra taste. {{image_2}} For gluten-free pasta options, you can choose rice or corn pasta. Both work great. They hold the sauce well and taste good. If you want a vegan alternative, swap the feta with a plant-based cheese. You can also use blended tofu with lemon juice to mimic feta's tang. If you want to change the flavor, try different sauces. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds depth. For a spicy kick, mix in some sriracha. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or spinach. They will add color and nutrition. Roasted zucchini can be a tasty addition too. If you can't find feta, cream cheese works too. It creates a rich and creamy texture. You can also try goat cheese for a tangy twist. Goat cheese melts beautifully and adds a unique flavor. Both options give you a nice change from the norm. For more details, check out the Full Recipe. To store leftovers, let the baked feta pasta cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for about three days in the fridge. For best taste, eat it within this time frame. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. This helps keep the creamy texture intact. You can freeze baked feta pasta if you want to save some for later. First, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. Stir it to mix everything well. This will bring back its yummy flavors. You can find the full recipe above to help you create this dish perfectly! Yes, you can use many pasta shapes. Short pasta like penne or fusilli works best. You can also try farfalle, rotini, or even shells. Each type has its own charm. They all hold sauce and flavors well. Just make sure they cook to al dente. This keeps them firm and tasty in your dish. Absolutely! Baked feta pasta is great for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it. After baking, let it cool before you store it. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh. It can last for up to five days in the fridge. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave when you're ready to eat. You can add many ingredients to boost flavor. Consider olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a salty kick. Spinach or kale can add some greens. You can also mix in different cheeses like goat or mozzarella. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley add freshness. Experiment with spices like oregano or Italian seasoning for more depth. This recipe brings together simple steps and tasty ingredients. You can create a delicious baked feta pasta that shines at any meal. Stick to the guide for perfect blending and cooking. Remember, personal touches like herbs or different cheeses can make it special. Lastly, store leftovers wisely for future enjoyment. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your own!

Baked Feta Pasta with Tomatoes

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Bliss Baked Feta Pasta! Delight in a creamy blend of baked feta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with fresh basil and zesty lemon. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends. Ready in just 45 minutes, it's a delicious dish that everyone will love. Click to explore the full recipe and bring cheesy bliss to your table!
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Ingredients
  

200g (7 oz) block of feta cheese

300g (10.5 oz) pasta (fusilli or penne work well)

300g (10.5 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1/4 cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil, for garnish

Grated lemon zest, for finishing

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

    In a large baking dish, pour the halved cherry tomatoes. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then stir to combine.

      Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes and drizzle a bit of olive oil over it.

        Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft and slightly golden.

          While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

            Once the baking is done, remove the dish from the oven. Gently mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork, mixing until creamy.

              Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, tossing to coat in the creamy feta-tomato mixture. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.

                Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

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