Description
A delightful blend of flavors and textures, this Baked Feta Pasta Salad features creamy feta cheese, al dente pasta, and fresh vegetables, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200 grams (about 7 oz) of feta cheese
- 500 grams (about 1 lb) of cherry tomatoes
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 300 grams (about 10 oz) of pasta (penne or fusilli)
- Black pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a medium-sized baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss to coat the tomatoes evenly.
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish among the cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta and sprinkle with additional black pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and caramelized, and the feta is soft and slightly golden.
- While the feta and tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Once the feta and tomatoes are done roasting, remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta cheese and mix it with the tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce. Add the minced garlic and stir to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, along with the chopped fresh basil. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the pasta salad to serving bowls or a large platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with additional fresh basil. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Let the salad cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave, but it’s best enjoyed cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Baked Feta Pasta Salad, Mediterranean Salad, Pasta Salad Recipe