The aroma of feta tomato pasta wafts through the kitchen, mingling with the sound of sizzling garlic and bubbling tomatoes. Each bite promises a burst of flavor that dances on your palate, while the creamy feta adds a delightful tang. Imagine indulging in this comforting dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends.
This recipe has a special place in my heart, often reminding me of lazy Sunday afternoons spent cooking with family. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the table, evoking laughter and stories. When you serve it, expect happy sighs and requests for seconds—who could resist such deliciousness?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Feta tomato pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of flavors creates a savory delight that pleases everyone
- Its vibrant colors make for a stunning presentation at any gathering
- You can customize it effortlessly by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins
I remember the first time I made feta tomato pasta; my friends were amazed at how something so simple could taste so good!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Choose your favorite type—penne or spaghetti work best! Cooked al dente, it’ll hold up beautifully against the sauce.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy tomatoes add sweetness. Look for bright red ones for maximum flavor!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides creaminess and tang. Opt for high-quality feta for the best taste.
Fresh Basil: Bright green basil leaves bring freshness to the dish. Always tear them just before serving to release their aroma.
Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil enhances all flavors. Use extra virgin for its rich taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves contribute a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor. Don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Salt and Pepper: Basic but crucial! Adjust seasoning to your liking for perfectly balanced flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare yourself for an exciting culinary adventure! Follow these steps to whip up your own feta tomato pasta masterpiece.
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop garlic finely and halve your cherry tomatoes; this will save you time later.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and then sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to burn it!
Add Tomatoes and Feta: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta into the skillet. Cook until tomatoes soften and start breaking down, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Everything Together: Add drained pasta into the skillet along with reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce. Stir everything well to combine.
Finish with Fresh Basil: Remove from heat and stir in freshly torn basil leaves. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Now grab your fork because you’re ready to savor every delicious bite of this feta tomato pasta!
You Must Know
- This feta tomato pasta recipe is a flavor explosion, combining creamy feta with juicy tomatoes
- The aroma while it cooks will make your mouth water
- You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the tomatoes and feta together until bubbly; cook your pasta separately and mix everything right before serving for optimal flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add spinach, olives, or even a splash of lemon juice for that extra zing! Switch out feta for goat cheese if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect feta tomato pasta, use ripe, in-season tomatoes for maximum flavor
- Don’t skip the roasting step; it brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning as needed
Cooking this dish always reminds me of that summer night when friends gathered on my patio, laughter mingling with the scent of roasted garlic and herbs wafting through the air.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, goat cheese or ricotta can also work beautifully in this recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This feta tomato pasta is naturally vegetarian; just ensure no meat is added.
What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
A fresh salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly for a complete meal.
Feta Tomato Pasta
Feta Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy feta cheese with juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected gatherings, this vibrant pasta is both easy to make and packed with flavor. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Chop garlic and halve cherry tomatoes.
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook penne until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add tomatoes and feta: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta. Cook until tomatoes soften (5-7 minutes).
- Combine everything: Add drained pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess. Mix well.
- Finish with basil: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
