Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
- 1 block (about 8 ounces) of feta cheese
- 1 pint of cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves of garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
If you’re looking to switch things up, you can substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety or use goat cheese for a different flavor profile. The beauty of cooking is in its adaptability, something I learned from my abuela’s intuitive approach to recipes.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- In a baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and garlic cloves around the cheese.
- Drizzle everything with olive oil, then sprinkle with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss the tomatoes gently to coat them in the oil and spices.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is golden and soft.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Once the feta and tomatoes are ready, remove them from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and garlic into a creamy sauce, mixing it with the roasted tomatoes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
This dish is a personal favorite, reminding me of the vibrant, tomato-based sauces my family used to make. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International