Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta has taken the internet by storm, captivating food enthusiasts with its simplicity and deliciousness. This viral sensation originated from a Finnish blogger named Jenni Häyrinen, who shared her easy-to-follow recipe on social media platforms. The dish gained widespread popularity due to its minimal ingredients, straightforward preparation, and irresistible flavors.

The star of this culinary sensation is a block of feta cheese, which becomes the creamy, savory centerpiece of the pasta dish. Combined with cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs, the ingredients are baked to perfection, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that coats each strand of pasta. The result is a harmonious blend of tangy, salty feta and the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes.

Baked Feta Pasta has become a go-to recipe for home cooks seeking a quick and satisfying meal without compromising on taste. Its rise to fame showcases the power of social media in bringing simple yet delectable recipes into kitchens around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this trendy dish offers a delightful and fuss-free culinary experience that’s sure to please your taste buds.

How to cook Baked Feta Pasta

Print Recipe

Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta has emerged as a culinary phenomenon, sweeping through kitchens and social media feeds alike with its irresistible combination of simplicity and flavor. Originating from a recipe shared by Finnish blogger Jenni Häyrinen, this dish has quickly become a favorite among food enthusiasts seeking a delicious yet effortless meal.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time45 minutes mins

Total Time1 hour hr

Keyword: Baked Feta Pasta

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

• 400 g 14 oz cherry tomatoes, washed and halved
• 1 block of feta cheese (about 200g or 7 oz)
• 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• Salt and black pepper
• 400 g 14 oz pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Assemble the Ingredients: Place the cherry tomatoes in a baking dish. Create a well in the center and place the block of feta in the middle. Scatter minced garlic around the tomatoes and feta.
• Seasoning: Drizzle the entire dish with olive oil. Sprinkle dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the tomatoes and feta.
• Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the feta has melted into a creamy consistency.
• Boil Pasta: While the tomatoes and feta are baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain.
• Combine: Once the feta mixture is done baking, use a fork to mash the feta and mix it with the tomatoes until well combined.
• Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss it with the creamy feta and tomato mixture until the pasta is well coated.
• Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

This recipe serves approximately 4 people, but feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Baked Feta Pasta nutrition

The nutritional content of Baked Feta Pasta can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes, but here’s a general overview of the nutritional components for one serving (assuming the recipe serves 4):

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Baked Feta Pasta (per serving):

• Calories: Around 500-600 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 15-20g
• Fat: Around 30-40g
  • Saturated Fat: Varies based on the type and amount of cheese and olive oil used.
  • Unsaturated Fat: Predominantly from olive oil.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
  • Dietary Fiber: Varies depending on the type of pasta and other ingredients.
• Sodium: Varies based on added salt and cheese.

Keep in mind that these values are general estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. For a more accurate assessment of the nutritional content, it’s advisable to use a nutrition calculator or refer to the nutritional information on the packaging of the specific products you use. Additionally, you can modify the recipe to make it more health-conscious by choosing whole-grain pasta, reducing the amount of cheese or oil, and adding more vegetables.

Benefits of Baked Feta Pasta

While Baked Feta Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish, its benefits can be more related to convenience, simplicity, and the inclusion of certain nutritious ingredients. Here are some potential benefits:

1. Quick and Easy Preparation: Baked Feta Pasta is celebrated for its simplicity and ease of preparation. It requires minimal effort, making it a convenient option for busy individuals or those with limited cooking experience.
2. Accessible Ingredients: The recipe typically uses readily available and affordable ingredients, such as cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, garlic, and olive oil. This makes it accessible for a wide range of home cooks.
3. Rich in Healthy Fats: Olive oil, a key ingredient in Baked Feta Pasta, is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy. These fats can contribute to a balanced and nutritious diet.
4. Tomatoes and Herbs: The inclusion of cherry tomatoes provides a dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamin C and lycopene. Additionally, herbs like oregano and basil can add flavor without the need for excessive salt.
5. Versatility: Baked Feta Pasta is versatile, allowing you to customize the recipe based on your preferences. You can incorporate whole-grain pasta for added fiber or include additional vegetables to boost the nutritional content.
6. Social and Cultural Connection: The dish gained popularity through social media, fostering a sense of community as people from different backgrounds and cultures share their interpretations of the recipe. This cultural connection can enhance the overall cooking and dining experience.

It’s important to note that, like many pasta dishes, Baked Feta Pasta should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. While it offers certain benefits, moderation is key, especially if you have specific dietary considerations or health goals. Adjusting ingredient quantities, choosing whole-grain options, and incorporating a variety of vegetables are ways to make the dish even more nutrient-dense.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta has become a culinary sensation known for its simplicity, deliciousness, and widespread popularity on social media. This viral dish, originating from a Finnish blogger, revolves around a few key ingredients like feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and olive oil, creating a creamy and flavorful pasta sauce.

The benefits of Baked Feta Pasta include its quick and easy preparation, accessibility of ingredients, and the potential inclusion of nutritious components like olive oil, tomatoes, and herbs. Its versatility allows for customization, and the dish has fostered a sense of community through shared culinary experiences on social platforms. While enjoying the indulgence of Baked Feta Pasta, it’s essential to balance it within a varied and well-rounded diet.