When the pandemic ushered us all into our kitchens, some recipes came to define lockdown cooking. Enter: Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes. It’s not just an Instagram sensation; it’s a culinary miracle offering a combination of simplicity and sophistication. Best of all, it’s surprisingly aligned with weight loss goals. A 100-gram serving of feta offers just about 264 calories, making this dish a creamy indulgence without the guilt.
This recipe is special for its vibrant bursts of sweet cherry tomatoes that soften perfectly in the oven, melding with salty, melty feta, and fragrant garlic. The aroma of basil perfuming the air as it bakes then swirls together into a luscious, mouthwatering sauce is pure alchemy. Sprinkle over some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and not only is your taste buds dance party-ready, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. Share your own spins and creative tips in the comments below—because, let’s face it, in this delicious journey, we’re all in it together!
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- Personal experience and lifestyle fit: Quick, easy, and fits well into my busy lifestyle.
- Modifications over time: I’ve added spinach for an iron boost.
- Unexpected uses or benefits: Leftovers make a great topping for mixed greens.
- Main benefit: Helps with weight management.
Recipe Card
Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Description
This Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a culinary delight that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of baked feta cheese. Finished with fragrant basil and a hint of red pepper flakes, this dish is not only Instagram famous but also nutritious, aligning with weight loss goals.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside. Chop the basil leaves for garnish.
Ensure the cherry tomatoes are well-rinsed. -
Assemble in Baking Dish
Place the cherry tomatoes in a baking dish and add the block of feta cheese in the center. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Use a spoon to slightly mix the tomatoes, ensuring they’re well-coated with oil and seasoning. -
Bake the Dish
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta is soft and golden.
Check midway to ensure the tomatoes don't dry out. -
Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and reserve some pasta water.
Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust consistency later if needed. -
Combine and Serve
Remove the baked dish from the oven and stir to combine melted feta and tomatoes with cooked pasta. Adjust seasoning with red pepper flakes and garnish with fresh basil.
Add pasta water if you prefer a thinner sauce consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 400kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22gg34%
- Saturated Fat 10gg50%
- Trans Fat 0gg
- Cholesterol 45mgmg15%
- Sodium 600mgmg25%
- Potassium 300mgmg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 38gg13%
- Dietary Fiber 3gg12%
- Sugars 2gg
- Protein 15gg30%
- Vitamin A 20% IU
- Vitamin C 30% mg
- Calcium 40% mg
- Iron 10% mg
- Vitamin D 0% IU
- Vitamin E 10% IU
- Vitamin K 15% mcg
- Riboflavin 15% mg
- Niacin 10% mg
- Vitamin B6 10% mg
- Folate 15% mcg
- Vitamin B12 10% mcg
- Biotin 0% mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 5% mg
- Phosphorus 25% mg
- Iodine 0% mcg
- Magnesium 10% mg
- Zinc 15% mg
- Selenium 35% mcg
- Copper 10% mg
- Manganese 20% mg
- Chromium 0% mcg
- Molybdenum 10% mcg
- Chloride 0% mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This recipe is versatile. Add your favorite vegetables like spinach or arugula for extra nutrition.