Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veggie pasta with baked feta is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The feta cheese is baked until golden and melted, blending perfectly with the roasted vegetables and pasta for a comforting, satisfying dish. The vegetables provide freshness, while the feta adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted based on what you have in your fridge. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, and it’s great for both vegetarians and anyone looking for a lighter pasta option.

Ingredients

1 block of feta cheese (200g)
200g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Surround it with the chopped red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
Drizzle everything with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss the veggies lightly to coat them in the oil and seasoning.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the feta cheese is golden and the vegetables are tender.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Once the feta and veggies are baked, remove from the oven and use a fork to mash the feta cheese, mixing it with the roasted vegetables to create a creamy sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, tossing everything together. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add protein: For an extra boost of protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the pasta.
Swap veggies: Feel free to swap out the bell peppers and zucchini for other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant.
Use a different cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or ricotta can be used as alternatives for a similar creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or pasta water to revive the creamy sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pasta sauce for this recipe?

While the roasted feta and veggie sauce is the star of this dish, you could add some store-bought pasta sauce if you want an extra layer of flavor. However, the homemade sauce from the baked feta is much more flavorful and fresh.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables and feta in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to make the pasta. You can also cook the pasta ahead of time and store it separately in the fridge.

3. Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s best to freeze the pasta and veggies separately if you plan to freeze them. The baked feta doesn’t freeze well because it can become crumbly once thawed.

4. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, you can replace the feta with a dairy-free feta or a cashew-based cheese alternative.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like—broccoli, spinach, or even roasted carrots would be a great addition.

6. Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. The recipe will taste just as delicious!

7. How can I make the feta cheesier?

If you want a richer, more decadent flavor, you can add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce or even mix in some cream to make it extra creamy.

8. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried oregano and basil instead of fresh herbs. Just use about 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil for the flavor.

9. Can I make this recipe spicy?

If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes when seasoning the vegetables or sprinkle some chili powder on top before serving.

10. What should I serve this pasta with?

This pasta is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Veggie Pasta with Baked Feta is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its creamy feta and roasted vegetables, it’s a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give it a try, and you’ll be hooked on this delicious comfort food.