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Feta Fiesta Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of feta cheese with the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes. This recipe is not just easy to prepare but also brings a delightful Mediterranean flair to your dining table. With its bright colors and rich flavors, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques makes it a go-to option for those seeking a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, the step-by-step cooking process, and some insightful tips that will help you make the most of this delicious pasta dish.

Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Discover the vibrant taste of Mediterranean cuisine with Feta Fiesta Pasta! This delightful dish brings together creamy feta cheese, sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant herbs for a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s simple to prepare and visually stunning. Learn how to choose the best ingredients and master the cooking process to create a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this Mediterranean masterpiece!

Ingredients
  

300g (10.5oz) pasta (choose from penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)

200g (7oz) block of feta cheese

500g (1.1lbs) cherry tomatoes, halved

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Zest of 1 lemon (optional, but recommended for a fresh kick)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it's ready for the baking process.

    Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large oven-safe baking dish, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with the minced garlic. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the mixture. Sprinkle with dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Use a large spoon to gently toss everything together until the tomatoes and garlic are well coated.

      Add the Feta: Carefully place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish. It should be surrounded by the seasoned tomatoes. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the feta, and lightly sprinkle with a touch more salt and pepper for added flavor.

        Bake to Perfection: Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes. The tomatoes should be soft and bursting, while the feta should be melt-in-your-mouth creamy and slightly golden on top.

          Cook the Pasta: While your feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Before draining, reserve a cup of the pasta water for later use. Drain the pasta and set aside.

            Combine Everything: Once the feta and tomatoes are finished baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork, mash the feta cheese and mix it with the roasted tomatoes to create a creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta to the baking dish and mix everything thoroughly. Gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

              Garnish and Serve: Serve the baked feta pasta warm, adorned with fresh basil leaves. For an extra pop of flavor and brightness, finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4