Baked Feta Pasta Tomatoes Olives

A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish featuring creamy baked feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and briny olives, all tossed with al dente pasta for a simple yet irresistible meal.

I first served this at a family gathering and it was an instant hit everyone asked for seconds

Ingredients

• Feta cheese block: 200 g
• Cherry tomatoes: 500 g halved
• Garlic: 2 cloves minced
• Short pasta: 300 g (e.g. penne fusilli or rigatoni)
• Kalamata olives: 100 g pitted halved
• Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Dried oregano: 1 tsp
• Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp optional
• Fresh basil leaves: to serve
• Salt and black pepper: to taste

Instructions

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

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Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 2:

Place the feta block in the center of a baking dish Surround it with cherry tomatoes and olives.

Step 3:

Drizzle everything with olive oil Sprinkle with minced garlic oregano and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4:

Bake for 2530 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and soft.

Step 5:

Meanwhile cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water then drain.

Step 6:

Remove the baking dish from the oven Use a fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together mixing well to create a creamy sauce.

Step 7:

Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish tossing to coat If needed add reserved pasta water a little at a time for a silkier sauce.

Step 8:

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

Check price on Amazon

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish always brings smiles at my table especially during casual weekend dinners

Notes

Try adding baby spinach or arugula for extra greens Use a gluten-free pasta if needed Excellent wine pairing a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé.

Required Tools

Baking dish Large pot Colander Mixing spoon or fork Chefs knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Milk (feta cheese) Wheat (pasta unless gluten-free variety is used) If using prepitted olives check for potential nut contamination Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.

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Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

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This easy baked feta pasta combines freshness and creaminess for a perfect weeknight meal

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni holds the sauce well, allowing it to coat each piece evenly.

→ Can I substitute the feta cheese?

Feta is ideal for its creamy texture and tangy flavor, but a similar brined cheese like halloumi can be used if desired.

→ How do I keep the sauce creamy?

Reserving some pasta cooking water and adding it gradually helps achieve a silkier, smooth sauce texture.

→ What herbs enhance the flavor?

Dried oregano adds earthiness during baking, while fresh basil leaves bring a bright, fragrant finish.

→ Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?

Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties without affecting taste or texture substantially.

→ How can I add extra greens to this dish?

Incorporate baby spinach or arugula either tossed in after baking or added just before serving for freshness.