That Viral Baked Feta Pasta Thing (Is Really Good, Actually)

Ingredients

• 1 pound Cherry Tomatoes (washed and left whole or halved)
• 7 ounces Greek Sheep's Milk Feta (authentic Greek feta for creaminess)
• 4 cloves Garlic (split in half)
• 0.33 cup Olive Oil (extra virgin, divided for roasting and sauce)
• 1 tsp Flat Iron Pepper Co. Chili Flakes (or any red pepper flakes to taste)
• to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground, no added salt needed)
• 8 ounces Dry Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne) (any shape you prefer)
• 0.25 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (roughly chopped, can be slightly wilted)
• 0.25 cup Pasta Water (reserved from cooking pasta for emulsifying)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

   Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it fully preheat.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 400°F

2. Arrange Tomatoes and Feta

   On a baking sheet, spread the cherry tomatoes, place the block of feta in the center, drizzle with olive oil, add the split garlic cloves, sprinkle chili flakes and freshly ground black pepper. No additional salt is needed.

   Time: PT5M

3. Roast

   Roast the tray in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even caramelization.

   Time: PT40M

   Temperature: 400°F

4. Cook Pasta

   While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes).

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: boiling

5. Reserve Pasta Water and Drain

   Before draining, scoop out ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta.

   Time: PT2M

6. Combine Tomatoes, Feta, and Basil

   Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the roasted tomatoes, softened feta, and garlic to a large mixing bowl. Add the roughly chopped basil and let it wilt.

   Time: PT2M

7. Create the Creamy Sauce

   Add the hot pasta to the bowl, pour in the reserved pasta water, and stir vigorously. The feta, olive oil, and tomato juices will emulsify into a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta.

   Time: PT3M

8. Finish and Serve

   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, sprinkle additional fresh basil on top, and serve immediately.

   Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

640

Protein

20g

Carbohydrates

70g

Fat

30g

Fiber

4g