Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to embark on this delicious culinary journey:
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 1 block (about 8 ounces) feta cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10 ounces pasta of your choice (I love using penne or fusilli)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
If you’re in the mood to experiment, try swapping the feta with creamy goat cheese for a different twist, or add a handful of spinach for extra greens.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create this delightful dish:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). As the oven warms up, picture my abuela’s kitchen, where the oven was always the heartbeat of our meals.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and season with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until the tomatoes are well-coated.
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomato mixture, allowing it to nestle among the vibrant reds. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the feta.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and released their juices, and the feta is golden and melty. The smell will remind you of the simple joys of home-cooked meals.
- While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water and set aside.
- Once the baking is done, remove the dish from the oven and use a fork or spoon to mix the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta, tossing gently to coat, and use the reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately, savoring the blend of flavors and memories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International