Viral Baked Feta Pasta Simple and Tasty Recipe

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- Pasta options: You can use penne or fusilli. Both hold sauce well. - Feta cheese: This cheese is creamy and salty. It melts into a rich sauce. - Cherry tomatoes: They add sweetness and acidity. Roasting makes them burst with flavor. - Garlic: Minced garlic gives depth and aroma to the dish. - Extra virgin olive oil: This oil adds richness and helps with roasting. It enhances the flavors. - Dried oregano: This herb brings a classic Mediterranean taste. It pairs well with feta. - Red pepper flakes: Use these for heat. Adjust the amount to your spice liking. - Fresh basil: This herb adds freshness and color. It brightens the dish. - Lemon zest and juice: These add brightness. They balance the creaminess of the feta. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for roasting. 2. Prepare your dish. Place a block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish. 3. Arrange the tomatoes. Halve the cherry tomatoes and spread them around the feta. 4. Add garlic. Mince four cloves of garlic and sprinkle them over the mix. 5. Drizzle with olive oil. Use about 1/4 cup for a rich flavor. 6. Season generously. Add dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. 1. Salt your water. This adds flavor to the pasta as it cooks. 2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 3. Cook the pasta. Add 200g of penne or fusilli. Follow package instructions for al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. 4. Reserve pasta water. Save 1/2 cup of the water before draining. 1. Mix the baked goods. When the feta and tomatoes are ready, mash them gently with a fork. 2. Add the pasta. Combine the drained pasta with the creamy mix in the baking dish. 3. Incorporate the pasta water. This helps create a smooth sauce. 4. Add lemon zest and juice. The zest of one lemon adds brightness. 5. Taste and adjust. Add more salt or pepper to ensure perfect flavor. The secret to great pasta is the cooking water. Always save some before draining. This water has starch, which helps the sauce stick. It also adds creaminess. You might need about 1/2 cup for this recipe. Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes. If you like mild dishes, start with a pinch. If you love heat, add more. You can always sprinkle more on top when serving. For a striking presentation, use shallow bowls or a large platter. This lets the vibrant colors of the dish shine. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes on top adds a nice pop. Pair this pasta with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling water works well. Pro Tips Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold the sauce well, enhancing every bite with flavor. Use High-Quality Feta: The quality of the feta cheese can significantly impact the dish. Look for a creamy, full-flavored feta for the best results. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference for a dish that suits your taste. Add Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it adds a delightful freshness that complements the richness of the feta and tomatoes. {{image_4}} You can switch the feta cheese for other options to change the taste. Here are a few ideas: - Goat cheese: This gives a tangy flavor and creamy texture. - Cream cheese: For a richer, smoother sauce, try cream cheese. - Ricotta: If you want a lighter option, ricotta works well. Adding more veggies can boost nutrition and flavor. Consider these: - Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds color and nutrients. - Zucchini: Sliced zucchini can add a nice crunch. - Bell peppers: Chopped bell peppers will give sweetness and color. You can control how spicy your dish is by adjusting the red pepper flakes. Here’s how: - Less heat: Use only a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild taste. - No spice: Omit the flakes entirely for a gentle flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish. Here are a few suggestions: - Basil: Add more fresh basil for a sweet, fragrant taste. - Parsley: Chopped parsley offers a fresh and bright note. - Thyme: A sprinkle of thyme can add an earthy flavor. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep it moist. Stir often until it’s warm. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just cover the dish to avoid drying out. Yes, you can freeze Baked Feta Pasta! It freezes well for up to three months. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out the air before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave. Add some fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. This keeps your dish tasty and fresh! Baked Feta Pasta went viral for its ease and taste. This dish uses simple ingredients that many people already have at home. The creamy feta and sweet tomatoes blend well, creating a rich sauce. Social media helped spread this recipe quickly. People love to share their results online. The dish looks great and tastes even better. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Yes, you can prepare some parts in advance. Cook the pasta and store it in the fridge. You can also bake the feta and tomatoes ahead. Just reheat them in the oven before mixing. If you store it properly, it lasts for about three days. Keep the pasta separate from the sauce to avoid sogginess. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh flavors later. Many sides pair well with Baked Feta Pasta. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is also a great choice for dipping. Roasted vegetables bring added color and flavor. For something light, consider steamed broccoli or asparagus. You can also serve a light white wine for a nice touch. These sides enhance the meal and keep it balanced. In summary, the key to making viral baked feta pasta lies in simple, quality ingredients. You need the right pasta, flavorful feta, fresh tomatoes, and garlic. Season it well with olive oil, herbs, and spices for the best taste. Follow the steps to bake, cook pasta, and mix everything into a creamy delight. Remember, you can adapt this dish to suit your taste. With helpful tips for storage and serving, it's easy to make it your own. Enjoy sharing this tasty dish with friends and family!

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If you love simple, mouth-watering meals, you’re in for a treat! The Viral Baked Feta Pasta has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason. It combines creamy feta, juicy tomatoes, and pasta for a dish that’s easy to make. In this article, I’ll guide you through the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips. You’ll impress your friends and family in no time with this tasty recipe!

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Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time and ingredients, making it accessible for weeknight dinners.
  2. Deliciously Creamy: The combination of roasted feta and tomatoes creates a rich, creamy sauce that beautifully coats the pasta.
  3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
  4. Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors of the dish make it a stunning centerpiece for any table setting.

Ingredients

Key Ingredients for Viral Baked Feta Pasta

– Pasta options: You can use penne or fusilli. Both hold sauce well.

– Feta cheese: This cheese is creamy and salty. It melts into a rich sauce.

– Cherry tomatoes: They add sweetness and acidity. Roasting makes them burst with flavor.

– Garlic: Minced garlic gives depth and aroma to the dish.

Seasoning and Garnish

– Extra virgin olive oil: This oil adds richness and helps with roasting. It enhances the flavors.

– Dried oregano: This herb brings a classic Mediterranean taste. It pairs well with feta.

– Red pepper flakes: Use these for heat. Adjust the amount to your spice liking.

– Fresh basil: This herb adds freshness and color. It brightens the dish.

– Lemon zest and juice: These add brightness. They balance the creaminess of the feta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baking the Feta and Tomatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for roasting.

2. Prepare your dish. Place a block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish.

3. Arrange the tomatoes. Halve the cherry tomatoes and spread them around the feta.

4. Add garlic. Mince four cloves of garlic and sprinkle them over the mix.

5. Drizzle with olive oil. Use about 1/4 cup for a rich flavor.

6. Season generously. Add dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

1. Salt your water. This adds flavor to the pasta as it cooks.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

3. Cook the pasta. Add 200g of penne or fusilli. Follow package instructions for al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.

4. Reserve pasta water. Save 1/2 cup of the water before draining.

Combining Ingredients for the Sauce

1. Mix the baked goods. When the feta and tomatoes are ready, mash them gently with a fork.

2. Add the pasta. Combine the drained pasta with the creamy mix in the baking dish.

3. Incorporate the pasta water. This helps create a smooth sauce.

4. Add lemon zest and juice. The zest of one lemon adds brightness.

5. Taste and adjust. Add more salt or pepper to ensure perfect flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture and Flavor

The secret to great pasta is the cooking water. Always save some before draining. This water has starch, which helps the sauce stick. It also adds creaminess. You might need about 1/2 cup for this recipe.

Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes. If you like mild dishes, start with a pinch. If you love heat, add more. You can always sprinkle more on top when serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a striking presentation, use shallow bowls or a large platter. This lets the vibrant colors of the dish shine. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes on top adds a nice pop.

Pair this pasta with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling water works well.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold the sauce well, enhancing every bite with flavor.
  2. Use High-Quality Feta: The quality of the feta cheese can significantly impact the dish. Look for a creamy, full-flavored feta for the best results.
  3. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference for a dish that suits your taste.
  4. Add Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it adds a delightful freshness that complements the richness of the feta and tomatoes.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch the feta cheese for other options to change the taste. Here are a few ideas:

– Goat cheese: This gives a tangy flavor and creamy texture.

– Cream cheese: For a richer, smoother sauce, try cream cheese.

– Ricotta: If you want a lighter option, ricotta works well.

Adding more veggies can boost nutrition and flavor. Consider these:

– Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds color and nutrients.

– Zucchini: Sliced zucchini can add a nice crunch.

– Bell peppers: Chopped bell peppers will give sweetness and color.

Spice Level Adjustments

You can control how spicy your dish is by adjusting the red pepper flakes. Here’s how:

– Less heat: Use only a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild taste.

– No spice: Omit the flakes entirely for a gentle flavor.

Fresh herbs can elevate the dish. Here are a few suggestions:

– Basil: Add more fresh basil for a sweet, fragrant taste.

– Parsley: Chopped parsley offers a fresh and bright note.

– Thyme: A sprinkle of thyme can add an earthy flavor.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep it moist. Stir often until it’s warm. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just cover the dish to avoid drying out.

Freezing Options

Yes, you can freeze Baked Feta Pasta! It freezes well for up to three months. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out the air before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave. Add some fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. This keeps your dish tasty and fresh!

FAQs

What makes Baked Feta Pasta so popular?

Baked Feta Pasta went viral for its ease and taste. This dish uses simple ingredients that many people already have at home. The creamy feta and sweet tomatoes blend well, creating a rich sauce. Social media helped spread this recipe quickly. People love to share their results online. The dish looks great and tastes even better. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare some parts in advance. Cook the pasta and store it in the fridge. You can also bake the feta and tomatoes ahead. Just reheat them in the oven before mixing. If you store it properly, it lasts for about three days. Keep the pasta separate from the sauce to avoid sogginess. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh flavors later.

What are good side dishes to serve with this pasta?

Many sides pair well with Baked Feta Pasta. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is also a great choice for dipping. Roasted vegetables bring added color and flavor. For something light, consider steamed broccoli or asparagus. You can also serve a light white wine for a nice touch. These sides enhance the meal and keep it balanced.

In summary, the key to making viral baked feta pasta lies in simple, quality ingredients. You need the right pasta, flavorful feta, fresh tomatoes, and garlic. Season it well with olive oil, herbs, and spices for the best taste. Follow the steps to bake, cook pasta, and mix everything into a creamy delight.

Remember, you can adapt this dish to suit your taste. With helpful tips for storage and serving, it’s easy to make it your own. Enjoy sharing this tasty dish with friends and famil

- Pasta options: You can use penne or fusilli. Both hold sauce well. - Feta cheese: This cheese is creamy and salty. It melts into a rich sauce. - Cherry tomatoes: They add sweetness and acidity. Roasting makes them burst with flavor. - Garlic: Minced garlic gives depth and aroma to the dish. - Extra virgin olive oil: This oil adds richness and helps with roasting. It enhances the flavors. - Dried oregano: This herb brings a classic Mediterranean taste. It pairs well with feta. - Red pepper flakes: Use these for heat. Adjust the amount to your spice liking. - Fresh basil: This herb adds freshness and color. It brightens the dish. - Lemon zest and juice: These add brightness. They balance the creaminess of the feta. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for roasting. 2. Prepare your dish. Place a block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish. 3. Arrange the tomatoes. Halve the cherry tomatoes and spread them around the feta. 4. Add garlic. Mince four cloves of garlic and sprinkle them over the mix. 5. Drizzle with olive oil. Use about 1/4 cup for a rich flavor. 6. Season generously. Add dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. 1. Salt your water. This adds flavor to the pasta as it cooks. 2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 3. Cook the pasta. Add 200g of penne or fusilli. Follow package instructions for al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. 4. Reserve pasta water. Save 1/2 cup of the water before draining. 1. Mix the baked goods. When the feta and tomatoes are ready, mash them gently with a fork. 2. Add the pasta. Combine the drained pasta with the creamy mix in the baking dish. 3. Incorporate the pasta water. This helps create a smooth sauce. 4. Add lemon zest and juice. The zest of one lemon adds brightness. 5. Taste and adjust. Add more salt or pepper to ensure perfect flavor. The secret to great pasta is the cooking water. Always save some before draining. This water has starch, which helps the sauce stick. It also adds creaminess. You might need about 1/2 cup for this recipe. Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes. If you like mild dishes, start with a pinch. If you love heat, add more. You can always sprinkle more on top when serving. For a striking presentation, use shallow bowls or a large platter. This lets the vibrant colors of the dish shine. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes on top adds a nice pop. Pair this pasta with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling water works well. Pro Tips Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold the sauce well, enhancing every bite with flavor. Use High-Quality Feta: The quality of the feta cheese can significantly impact the dish. Look for a creamy, full-flavored feta for the best results. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference for a dish that suits your taste. Add Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it adds a delightful freshness that complements the richness of the feta and tomatoes. {{image_4}} You can switch the feta cheese for other options to change the taste. Here are a few ideas: - Goat cheese: This gives a tangy flavor and creamy texture. - Cream cheese: For a richer, smoother sauce, try cream cheese. - Ricotta: If you want a lighter option, ricotta works well. Adding more veggies can boost nutrition and flavor. Consider these: - Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds color and nutrients. - Zucchini: Sliced zucchini can add a nice crunch. - Bell peppers: Chopped bell peppers will give sweetness and color. You can control how spicy your dish is by adjusting the red pepper flakes. Here’s how: - Less heat: Use only a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild taste. - No spice: Omit the flakes entirely for a gentle flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish. Here are a few suggestions: - Basil: Add more fresh basil for a sweet, fragrant taste. - Parsley: Chopped parsley offers a fresh and bright note. - Thyme: A sprinkle of thyme can add an earthy flavor. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep it moist. Stir often until it’s warm. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just cover the dish to avoid drying out. Yes, you can freeze Baked Feta Pasta! It freezes well for up to three months. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out the air before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave. Add some fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. This keeps your dish tasty and fresh! Baked Feta Pasta went viral for its ease and taste. This dish uses simple ingredients that many people already have at home. The creamy feta and sweet tomatoes blend well, creating a rich sauce. Social media helped spread this recipe quickly. People love to share their results online. The dish looks great and tastes even better. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Yes, you can prepare some parts in advance. Cook the pasta and store it in the fridge. You can also bake the feta and tomatoes ahead. Just reheat them in the oven before mixing. If you store it properly, it lasts for about three days. Keep the pasta separate from the sauce to avoid sogginess. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh flavors later. Many sides pair well with Baked Feta Pasta. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is also a great choice for dipping. Roasted vegetables bring added color and flavor. For something light, consider steamed broccoli or asparagus. You can also serve a light white wine for a nice touch. These sides enhance the meal and keep it balanced. In summary, the key to making viral baked feta pasta lies in simple, quality ingredients. You need the right pasta, flavorful feta, fresh tomatoes, and garlic. Season it well with olive oil, herbs, and spices for the best taste. Follow the steps to bake, cook pasta, and mix everything into a creamy delight. Remember, you can adapt this dish to suit your taste. With helpful tips for storage and serving, it's easy to make it your own. Enjoy sharing this tasty dish with friends and family!

Viral Baked Feta Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish featuring roasted feta cheese and cherry tomatoes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g pasta (recommended: penne or fusilli)
  • 200 g block of feta cheese
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 Zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the feta and tomatoes will roast perfectly.
  • In a sizable baking dish, position the block of feta cheese right in the center.
  • Array the halved cherry tomatoes around the feta, then generously sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over everything.
  • Drizzle the olive oil lavishly over the feta, tomatoes, and garlic mixture. Follow this by seasoning with dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cherry tomatoes are blistered and bursting, and the feta has turned a lovely golden color.
  • While the feta and tomatoes are baking away, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it's perfectly al dente. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest.
  • Once the baking time is complete, carefully take the dish out of the oven. Use a fork to gently mash the creamy feta cheese and roasted tomatoes together until they form a velvety sauce.
  • Introduce the drained pasta to the baking dish, along with the reserved pasta water, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Toss everything gently until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the luscious sauce.
  • Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed, ensuring the flavors are just right.
  • Serve the dish warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls or on a large platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes on top can add a nice pop!
Keyword baked, cherry tomatoes, easy recipe, feta, pasta

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