Introduction
Garlic Confit Baked Feta Pasta is a delightful and creamy dish that combines the rich flavors of roasted cherry tomatoes, soft feta cheese, and confit garlic. This easy-to-make pasta dish is perfect for a comforting dinner that feels both luxurious and simple. The baked feta and tomatoes create a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe involves baking a block of feta cheese with cherry tomatoes and whole garlic cloves, all drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with herbs. Once baked, the feta, tomatoes, and garlic are mashed together to create a creamy, rich sauce that is tossed with cooked pasta. Garnished with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare.
History and Origin
Baked feta pasta gained widespread popularity as a viral TikTok recipe, captivating food enthusiasts with its simplicity and deliciousness. This version enhances the original by adding garlic confit, which involves slow-roasting garlic in olive oil until it becomes soft and caramelized. The combination of creamy feta, sweet roasted tomatoes, and mellow garlic creates a dish that is deeply flavorful and comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 block of feta cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 head garlic, peeled
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish. Surround it with the cherry tomatoes and peeled garlic cloves.
- Season and Drizzle: Drizzle the olive oil over the feta, tomatoes, and garlic. Sprinkle with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft and slightly golden.
- Cook the Pasta: While the feta mixture is baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mash the Feta Mixture: Once the feta and tomatoes are done baking, use a fork to mash the feta and garlic together, creating a creamy sauce. Mix in the roasted tomatoes.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the baking dish with the mashed feta mixture and mix well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Serve warm.
Serving
Garlic Confit Baked Feta Pasta is best served immediately, while it is warm and the flavors are at their peak. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir. A side of mixed greens or a simple Caesar salad complements the rich flavors of the pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes a great accompaniment.
Variations of the Recipe
- Spicy Baked Feta Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish before baking for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable-Enhanced Pasta: Incorporate other roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added flavor and nutrition.
- Vegan Baked Pasta: Use a plant-based feta cheese alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan version.
- Herb-Infused Pasta: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a unique twist.
Health Benefits
- Feta Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and lycopene, promoting overall health and reducing inflammation.
- Garlic: Contains allicin, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties, and supports heart health.
Notes
- Garlic Confit: Slow-roasting the garlic in olive oil mellows its flavor and adds a rich, caramelized taste to the dish.
- Pasta Choice: Use your favorite type of pasta or whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or a creamy cheese like ricotta. The texture and flavor will vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk if the sauce has thickened.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the feta and tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture and cook the pasta fresh to combine.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?
Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried garlic if necessary. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the fresh garlic cloves.
Conclusion
Garlic Confit Baked Feta Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of feta cheese, roasted cherry tomatoes, and confit garlic. This pasta dish is perfect for a comforting dinner and is sure to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor. Enjoy this creamy, savory pasta with your favorite sides and savor the delightful blend of ingredients.