Best Baked Feta Pasta with Vegetables

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked feta pasta is an absolute crowd-pleaser, and this version with vegetables takes it to the next level. The roasted tomatoes, zucchini, and onions bring a burst of freshness and sweetness to the dish, perfectly complementing the creamy feta and aromatic garlic. The combination of olive oil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes creates a savory, slightly spicy base, while the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese add an extra layer of flavor. It’s easy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for any pasta lover!

Ingredients

• 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1 zucchini (cut into slices)
• 1/2 sweet onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/4 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 block feta cheese (drained)
• 1 pound of pasta
• 1/4 cup fresh basil
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the cherry or grape tomatoes, zucchini slices, and diced sweet onion with 1/4 cup of olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until everything is evenly coated.
3. Prepare the feta: In the center of the baking dish, place the block of feta cheese. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil over the feta and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the oven: Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the feta is soft and the tomatoes burst and release their juices.
5. Cook the pasta: While the vegetables and feta are roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
6. Combine: Once the feta and vegetables are roasted, remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork or spoon, mash the feta into the tomatoes and mix everything together to form a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
7. Finish and serve: Stir in the fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas to the pasta before serving.
• Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan, omit the feta cheese and Parmesan, and use plant-based feta and nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.
• More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the mix before roasting for added color and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to bring back its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives to feta, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.

Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, farfalle, or fusilli. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the baked feta and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything as directed.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sausage would complement this dish well. You can also use roasted turkey for added protein.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the vegetables before roasting.

Can I make this dish without garlic?

Yes, you can omit the garlic if you prefer, though it adds a wonderful depth of flavor. You can substitute it with a pinch of garlic powder if you still want a mild garlic flavor.

How do I prevent the feta from drying out while baking?

Ensure the feta is well-coated with olive oil and surrounded by plenty of vegetables. The moisture from the tomatoes will keep the feta creamy during the roasting process.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil adds a great burst of flavor, you can substitute dried basil. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil instead of the fresh.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Make sure your feta cheese is gluten-free as well.

Can I freeze this pasta?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Best Baked Feta Pasta with Vegetables is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines roasted feta, fresh vegetables, and pasta for a meal that is both satisfying and healthy. The creamy feta sauce is a rich, tangy complement to the sweetness of the tomatoes and the heartiness of the zucchini. Whether you’re preparing this for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the comforting flavors and vibrant colors in every bite!

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