Introducing the delectable Baked Feta Pasta, a delightfully simple recipe that elevates the flavors of cherry tomatoes and feta cheese into a luscious and cheesy sauce! Created by oven-roasting a block of feta cheese with sweet cherry tomatoes, this dish boasts a harmonious blend of salty and savory notes.
To prepare this mouthwatering dish, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Arrange the cherry tomatoes in an oven-safe baking dish, drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil, and season with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Give it all a good toss for even distribution. Next, nestle the feta block in the midst of the cherry tomatoes, ensuring it’s well-coated with the seasoned olive oil.
Now, let the magic happen in the oven as you bake the tomatoes and feta cheese for 35 minutes. Witness the tantalizing sight of the cherry tomatoes bursting and the feta cheese irresistibly melting. Meanwhile, cook the cavatappi pasta (or your preferred pasta) in a pot of salted water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and keep aside ½ cup of the cooking liquid for potential tossing later.
As the tomatoes and feta bake, infuse the dish with aromatic minced garlic and packed chopped fresh basil. Once the oven timer chimes, combine the cooked pasta with the tantalizing roasted tomatoes and feta, giving it a delightful toss. To elevate the presentation, garnish with more fresh basil and serve this warm, scrumptious Baked Feta Pasta. A perfect dinner or entrée option, this dish is sure to impress with its flavors and simplicity.
Origin of Baked Feta Pasta Recipe:
The Baked Feta Pasta recipe gained immense popularity after Finnish food blogger Jenni Häyrinen shared it on her Instagram account. The dish, known as “TikTok Pasta” or “TikTok Baked Feta Pasta,” went viral and quickly became a global sensation for its simplicity and deliciousness. The recipe’s origin can be traced back to Finland, where it gained immense popularity before spreading to different parts of the world, thanks to social media.
Useful Tools for Baked Feta Pasta:
- Oven-Safe Baking Dish: You’ll need a baking dish that is safe to use in the oven for roasting the cherry tomatoes and feta cheese. Choose a size that comfortably accommodates the tomatoes and allows space for the feta in the center.
- Pot for Cooking Pasta: A large pot with enough capacity to cook the pasta is essential. Opt for a pot with a sturdy handle and a lid for easy boiling and draining.
- Drainer/Colander: A drainer or colander is useful for draining the cooked pasta after boiling. Make sure it’s large enough to hold the amount of pasta you’re cooking.
- Oven Mitts: When handling the hot baking dish after roasting, oven mitts will protect your hands from burns.
These essential tools will make preparing Baked Feta Pasta easier and ensure you have a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this simple yet flavorful pasta dish!
Creamy Baked Feta Pasta with Bursting Cherry Tomatoes
Ingridients
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cherry tomatoes in an oven-safe baking dish. Pour the olive oil over the tomatoes and season with sea salt and black pepper. Toss until well combined.
-
Place the feta block in the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the cherry tomatoes. Flip the feta a couple of times to coat it with the olive oil and seasoning.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until the cherry tomatoes burst and the feta cheese melts.
-
While the tomatoes and feta are baking, cook the cavatappi pasta (or pasta of choice) in a pot of salted water following the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the cooking liquid in case it's needed later.
-
As soon as the tomatoes and feta are done baking, add the minced garlic and chopped fresh basil to the dish, and gently toss everything together.
-
Transfer the cooked pasta to the baking dish, and toss it with the roasted tomatoes and feta until well combined.
-
Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, and serve the warm and scrumptious Baked Feta Pasta immediately. Enjoy this delightful and easy-to-make dish!