The Pasta That Broke the Internet (and Probably Your Grocery Store)
Remember when TikTok had us all dancing, lip-syncing, and then—bam!—cooking like gourmet chefs? Enter the Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes. This dish didn’t just go viral; it caused a feta frenzy, leaving cheese aisles emptier than a teenager’s fridge.
But here’s the kicker: it’s not just a social media fad. This pasta is creamy, tangy, and bursting with flavor, all while being ridiculously easy to make. No culinary degree required.
Why This Recipe Is Your New Best Friend
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Toss ingredients in a dish, bake, mix, and voilà!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself.
- Customizable: Add your twist—spicy, vegan, or protein-packed.
- Leftovers? Even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
- 8 oz block of feta cheese
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Substitutions:
- Feta: Try goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor.
- Pasta: Gluten-free or whole wheat options work well.
Tools & Kitchen Gadgets Used
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Yes, we’re starting with the basics.
- In your baking dish, toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Place the block of feta in the center of the dish, nestling it among the tomatoes.
- Bake for 35 minutes, until tomatoes burst and feta is golden.
- Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water.
- Once baked, mash the feta and tomatoes together to create a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the dish, mixing well. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh basil, serve, and bask in the glory of your creation.
Calories & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using crumbled feta: Stick to a block for optimal creaminess.
- Overcooking the pasta: Al dente is your friend.
- Skipping the pasta water: It helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- Forgetting to season: Salt and pepper are essential.
Variations & Customizations
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based feta and pasta.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A: A block is preferred for creaminess, but crumbled can work in a pinch.
Q: What type of pasta works best?
A: Short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the sauce well.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms are great additions.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free pasta.
Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month.
Q: Can I use other cheeses?
A: Goat cheese or ricotta can be used, but the flavor will differ.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—the Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes that’s taken the world by storm. It’s easy, delicious, and sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations!
