© Original Recipe By The Cozy Crumb ©
Baked Feta Veggie Pasta: The Irresistible Vegetarian Pasta Recipe for Cheese Lovers & Healthy Dinners 🧀🌿🍝
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a vegetarian pasta recipe that is both wholesome and delicious, then this Baked Feta Veggie Pasta is precisely what you need. This cheese lover’s pasta combines tender roasted vegetables with creamy baked feta, resulting in a flavorful, easy, and healthy pasta dinner perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility—it’s an easy veggie pasta that packs a punch of flavor while being remarkably simple to prepare. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything from ingredient selection to expert tips, ensuring your baked feta veggie pasta turns out perfect every time. Ready to impress your family or friends with this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the recipe details!
2. Ingredients for the Healthy Pasta Dinner
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work beautifully)
- 200 g of feta cheese, preferably in a block for baking
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: chili flakes for a spicy kick
3. How to Make This Cheese Lover’s Pasta: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables and Feta
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red bell pepper with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Arrange the feta block in the center of a baking dish, surrounded by the seasoned vegetables. Drizzle the feta with the remaining olive oil for extra flavor.
Baking the Feta and Vegetables
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the feta is golden and slightly crispy on the edges, and the vegetables are tender. This roasting process enhances the flavors, making the dish irresistibly flavorful and fragrant.
Cooking the Pasta
While the feta and vegetables are baking, cook your pasta according to the package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Assembling the Pasta Dish
Once the feta and vegetables are baked, crumble the feta into the pasta. Add the roasted vegetables, garlic, and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. For an extra spicy touch, sprinkle chili flakes over the top.
Finishing Touches & Serving
Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and serve immediately. For added color and freshness, drizzle a little more olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice. This healthy pasta dinner pairs wonderfully with crusty bread and a crisp green salad.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Baked Feta Veggie Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For best results, add a splash of water or olive oil during reheating to maintain moisture and flavor.
5. Serving Suggestions & Variations
This easy veggie pasta is incredibly versatile. Try adding sautéed spinach, olives, or artichoke hearts for extra flavor. It also works well with different cheeses—substitute feta with ricotta or goat cheese for a different twist. Serve with a side of roasted focaccia or fresh arugula salad for a complete meal.
For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. This dish also makes a fantastic base for meal prep, as it stores well and can be enjoyed hot or cold.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Feta Veggie Pasta
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the feta cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. Add extra roasted vegetables or plant-based protein for more substance.
What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni hold the creamy feta sauce well. Feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta for best results.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire process takes approximately 40-45 minutes, including baking and cooking time, making it an ideal weeknight healthy pasta dinner.
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried ones?
Absolutely! Use fresh oregano or basil in place of dried for a brighter flavor. Add fresh herbs during the final assembly for maximum aroma.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for roasting vegetables quickly and evenly, saving time and effort in the kitchen.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures you have the right pots and pans to cook the pasta and prepare your ingredients with ease.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Ideal for grilling optional protein additions or roasting vegetables with perfect results.
8. Conclusion
In summary, this vegetarian pasta recipe featuring baked feta and roasted vegetables is a must-try for any cheese lover or health-conscious diner. Its combination of simple ingredients, quick preparation, and bold flavors make it an easy veggie pasta that will become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or serve it at your next dinner party, this dish guarantees satisfaction. Don’t forget, you can customize it with various vegetables or cheeses to suit your taste buds. Happy cooking!
9. Final thoughts & Happy Cooking!
Remember, the key to a delicious vegetarian pasta recipe like this is fresh ingredients and a little bit of love. Enjoy creating a colorful, nutritious, and cheesy pasta dish that everyone will appreciate. Happy eating and cooking!
Print
Baked Feta Veggie Pasta
A flavorful, cheesy baked feta pasta loaded with fresh vegetables and herbs, baked to perfection for a comforting yet healthy meal.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g dried pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 200g feta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, and garlic on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Place feta cheese in the center of the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until tomatoes are blistered and feta is slightly golden.
- Remove from oven. Gently mash feta and tomatoes to create a creamy sauce. Mix in cooked pasta and fresh basil leaves.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Bake and Toss
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
