Baked Feta Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Olives

Recipe: Baked Feta and Cherry Tomato Pasta

Category: Main Course

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F) with the fan on to create a convection heat.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Take a baking dish and place the block of feta cheese in the center. Surround the feta with the washed and dried cherry tomatoes. Scatter the Taggiasca olives around, ensuring everything is spread evenly.

3. Season and Bake: Drizzle everything with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle oregano and a pinch of black pepper over the ingredients. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The feta will soften and begin to melt, while the tomatoes roast to release their sweet juices.

4. Cook the Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the Mezze Maniche Rigate pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

5. Combine and Serve: When the baking time is up, remove the dish from the oven. Drain the pasta and immediately mix it with the roasted feta and tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine the flavors— the feta should mix with the tomatoes, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce.

6. Finish and Garnish: Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the pasta for a burst of color and fragrance. Adjust seasoning with additional olive oil, black pepper, or salt if needed.

7. Serve Immediately: Serve the Baked Feta and Cherry Tomato Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and a final drizzle of olive oil.

This simple yet flavorful pasta dish combines the tanginess of feta, the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes, and the depth of taggiasca olives. It’s the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors that is sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy your meal!