# Baked Feta Pasta: An Easy and Tasty Meal
This baked feta pasta recipe is an enjoyable mix of roasted cherry tomatoes, rich feta cheese, and soft penne pasta, all unified with a few ingredients. It’s a meal that delivers a flavor explosion in every mouthful while requiring minimal effort, making it ideal for a swift weeknight supper.
## Flavor Profile
The baked feta pasta is rich and zesty, thanks to the feta cheese, while the roasted cherry tomatoes contribute a sweet and juicy contrast. The dish is flavored with Italian herbs and a hint of chili flakes, elevating its overall taste without overpowering the palate.
## Skill Level
This recipe is exceptionally simple to make, making it ideal for cooks of any experience level. With everything cooked in a single pan, cleanup is quick and easy, allowing you to relish your meal without dealing with a pile of dishes.
## Budget-Friendly Tips
One of the greatest features of this dish is its adaptability. You can effortlessly use leftover vegetables from your refrigerator or garden, making it a fantastic way to reduce food waste while preparing a delicious vegetarian meal.
## Basic Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta
1. **Feta Cheese**: The highlight of the dish, offering a salty and tangy taste. Opt for a whole block for optimal results.
2. **Cherry Tomatoes**: Their sweetness and juiciness make them perfect for roasting.
3. **Seasonings**: Italian seasoning can be either store-bought or homemade, adding richness to the dish.
4. **Pasta**: Rotini, penne, bucatini, or shells are best, as they beautifully cling to the sauce.
## Easy & Delicious Variations
– **Add Vegetables**: Mix in chopped spinach, black olives, sliced zucchini, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
– **Tomato Substitutes**: If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, diced Roma or garden tomatoes will work in a hurry.
– **Protein Boost**: Incorporate mini meatballs, ground Italian sausage, or any leftover meat for a heartier dish.
## Cooking Tips
– **Olive Oil**: Ensure to use enough olive oil; it’s crucial for uniform roasting and flavor.
– **Pasta Cooking**: Prepare the pasta al dente and save some pasta water to modify the sauce’s consistency later.
– **Prep Ahead**: You can roast the feta and tomatoes beforehand and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to mix them with the pasta.
– **Quality Ingredients**: Using high-quality feta cheese will greatly improve the dish’s flavor.
## Serving & Storing
Leftover baked feta pasta can be kept in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad or warmed up with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
## Conclusion
Baked feta pasta is an uncomplicated yet delectable dish that merges the creaminess of feta with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes, making it a favorite for many. Whether cooking for yourself or a family, this recipe is bound to impress with its simplicity and flavor. Savor this delightful meal any evening of the week!