Save to Pinterest A festive, colorful pasta dish featuring creamy baked feta, cherry tomatoes, and holiday herbs, all cooked together in one pan for a simple yet elegant meal.
This recipe quickly became a holiday favorite in my family for its vibrant colors and delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- Dairy: 200 g feta cheese block
- Vegetables: 500 g cherry tomatoes, whole, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 small red onion, thinly sliced, 100 g baby spinach, 1 small red bell pepper, diced, Zest of 1 lemon
- Pasta: 300 g short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
- Herbs & Seasonings: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2:
- In a large ovenproof baking dish, place the feta cheese block in the center. Surround with cherry tomatoes, red onion, red bell pepper, and garlic.
- Step 3:
- Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and feta. Sprinkle with dried oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss vegetables gently, keeping the feta in the center.
- Step 4:
- Bake for 25 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and soft.
- Step 5:
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 100 ml (about ⅓ cup) of the pasta water, then drain.
- Step 6:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Add spinach and lemon zest to the dish.
- Step 7:
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir everything together until the feta melts and coats the pasta in a creamy sauce.
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 9:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Save to Pinterest This meal always brings my family together around the table, enjoying both the flavors and the festive feel it creates.
Notes
For a festive touch, use tricolor cherry tomatoes and red bell pepper. Add roasted walnuts or pine nuts for extra crunch and serve with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Required Tools
Ovenproof baking dish, Large pot for pasta, Colander, Mixing spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta cheese) and gluten (pasta). For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pasta. Always check cheese and pasta labels for hidden allergens.
Save to Pinterest This simple, comforting dish is perfect for holiday gatherings and sure to impress your guests.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese is used in this dish?
Feta cheese is used for its creamy texture and tangy flavor, which softens beautifully when baked.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, using certified gluten-free pasta will make the dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- → How can I add extra color to the pasta?
Incorporate tricolor cherry tomatoes and red bell pepper for a vibrant, festive look.
- → What kind of herbs enhance this pasta best?
Dried oregano, dried thyme, and fresh basil provide aromatic and fresh herbal notes.
- → Is it possible to add crunch to the dish?
Adding roasted walnuts or pine nuts just before serving adds a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor.