Baked Feta Pasta: A Quick and Easy Dish
Baked feta pasta is a popular dish that combines the simplicity of pasta with the rich flavors of baked feta cheese. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
* 1 block of feta cheese (8 ounces)
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes
* 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper
* 1/2 cup sliced onion
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the feta cheese in a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
3. Scatter the tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and basil around the feta cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the feta is golden brown and bubbly.
6. While the feta is baking, cook the pasta according to package directions.
7. Once the feta is done, remove it from the oven and stir in the cooked pasta.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Tips:
* For a richer flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
* If you don't have fresh basil on hand, you can substitute with dried basil or oregano.
* Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Variations:
* Add cooked chicken or sausage to the pasta for a protein boost.
* Stir in some chopped spinach or arugula for a healthy addition.
* Top the pasta with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy flavor.
Baked feta pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and versatile flavors, it's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.