TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe: Viral Cherry Tomato Pasta That’s Easy to Make 2026

Posted on May 10, 2026 By Mark



The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe is a viral sensation that combines fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta into one stunning dish. This TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe gained popularity on social media for its simplicity, visual appeal, and incredible flavor profile. The beauty of this TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe lies in how the baked tomatoes burst to create a natural sauce that coats each strand of pasta with tangy, herbaceous goodness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing dinner guests, this TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes. The cherry tomatoes soften and create a light, fresh sauce that pairs beautifully with creamy feta, creating a memorable meal that tastes far more complicated than it actually is.

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeServingsDifficultyCuisine
10 minutes20 minutes30 minutes4 servingsEasyMediterranean
tiktok tomato feta pasta recipe
TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe: Viral Cherry Tomato Pasta That's Easy to Make 2026 18
Table of Contents

Why This TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe Works

The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe became viral because it solves the problem of creating impressive weeknight dinners without complicated techniques. I’ve tested countless pasta recipes, and this TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe stands out because the baking method caramelizes the tomatoes while infusing the feta with their juices. The simplicity of the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe appeals to busy home cooks who want restaurant-quality meals without spending hours in the kitchen. What makes this TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe truly special is how the natural tomato juices combine with olive oil to create a silky, emulsified sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

The flavor profile of this TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe is bright, fresh, and perfectly balanced between acidic tomatoes and creamy feta cheese. Cherry tomatoes are chosen specifically because they burst easily when baked, releasing their concentrated sweetness and acidity. The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe relies on high heat to caramelize the exterior of the tomatoes while keeping their interiors tender and juicy. This technique creates depth of flavor that you typically only find in slow-cooked sauces, but it takes just 20 minutes to achieve.

Home cooks love the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe because it’s forgiving and adaptable to whatever ingredients they have on hand. The visual presentation of this TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe makes it perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or simply elevating an ordinary Tuesday evening. The texture contrast between al dente pasta, burst tomatoes, and creamy feta creates an eating experience that feels indulgent despite being light and healthy. Every component in the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe serves a purpose, with nothing wasted or unnecessary.

The beauty of the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe extends to its versatility and the joy of watching it come together before your eyes. Fresh basil, quality olive oil, and good feta are the only requirements for transforming this TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe from good to unforgettable. The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe proves that restaurant-quality cooking doesn’t require intimidating ingredients or complex procedures, just intentional choices and proper technique.

TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe Ingredients

Creating the perfect TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe starts with sourcing quality ingredients that deliver maximum flavor with minimal preparation.

IngredientQuantityNotes with Alternatives
Cherry tomatoes2 poundsUse any small vine tomatoes; heirloom cherry tomatoes add visual appeal and superior flavor to your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Feta cheese1.5 cups (8 oz)Choose full-fat feta for creamier results; crumbled feta works best for even distribution throughout the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Pasta (any shape)1 poundPappardelle, fettuccine, or spaghetti work beautifully; use any shape you prefer for the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Garlic cloves4 clovesFresh minced garlic provides aromatic depth; increase quantity if you love garlic in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Extra virgin olive oil0.5 cupQuality matters significantly; good olive oil is essential for the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe sauce
Fresh basil1 cup (loosely packed)Add half during cooking and half as garnish for maximum freshness in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Red pepper flakes0.5 teaspoonOptional but recommended; adjust spice level according to preference for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Sea saltTo tasteUse good quality salt; taste as you go since feta adds saltiness to the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Black pepperTo tasteFreshly ground pepper enhances all elements of the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Lemon juice1 tablespoonFresh lemon brightens flavors and adds acidity to balance richness in the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
tiktok tomato feta pasta recipe
TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe: Viral Cherry Tomato Pasta That's Easy to Make 2026 19

How to Make TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe

Making the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe involves straightforward steps that come together beautifully when you follow proper timing and technique.

Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F, ensuring the rack sits in the middle position for even baking of your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  2. Rinse 2 pounds of cherry tomatoes and pat them completely dry using paper towels.
  3. Mince 4 garlic cloves into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  4. Loosely pack fresh basil and measure out 1 cup, setting aside 0.5 cup for cooking and 0.5 cup for garnish of your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  5. Crumble 1.5 cups of feta cheese into bite-sized pieces and set aside for the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Bake the Tomatoes and Create the Sauce

  1. Pour 0.5 cup of extra virgin olive oil into a large baking dish or cast iron skillet.
  2. Add minced garlic to the oil and distribute evenly across the bottom of the dish for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  3. Add 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes directly to the oil, stirring to combine all ingredients in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  4. Arrange the dried cherry tomatoes in a single layer across the oil mixture, ensuring they’re distributed evenly for optimal caramelization of your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  5. Season the tomatoes generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing gently to coat evenly for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  6. Scatter half of the fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes in preparation for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  7. Place the baking dish in the preheated 400°F oven and bake for 20 minutes until the tomato skins burst and the edges begin to char slightly in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Cook the Pasta and Combine

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil while the tomatoes bake, beginning about 10 minutes into the cooking time for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  2. Add 1 pound of pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta, as this starch-rich liquid is crucial for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  4. Remove the baking dish from the oven once tomatoes have burst and their skins have browned slightly in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  5. Scatter the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the hot roasted tomatoes for the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  6. Add the cooked pasta directly to the baking dish with the tomatoes and feta, stirring gently to combine all components of your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  7. Pour reserved pasta water gradually into the mixture, stirring constantly until a silky sauce coats all the pasta in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  8. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and toss gently to combine all flavors in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.
  9. Garnish generously with remaining fresh basil and serve immediately while hot for the best TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe experience.
tiktok tomato feta pasta recipe
TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe: Viral Cherry Tomato Pasta That's Easy to Make 2026 20

Chef Tips for Perfect TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe

These professional techniques will elevate your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe from good to exceptional.

  • Use room temperature feta: Remove feta from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking so it softens slightly when combined with hot pasta in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe, creating a creamier sauce without being melt.
  • Don’t skip drying the tomatoes: Wet tomatoes won’t caramelize properly in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe, so pat them thoroughly with paper towels for crispy, browned edges.
  • Monitor oven temperature closely: Use an oven thermometer for accuracy since different ovens vary; proper heat ensures tomatoes burst perfectly in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe without drying out completely.
  • Save pasta water before draining: The starchy water is essential for creating the silky, emulsified sauce that defines an authentic TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe, so never skip this step.
  • Add lemon juice at the end: Citric acid added just before serving brightens all flavors in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe without cooking off the volatile compounds that provide fresh brightness.
  • Stir gently when combining: Use a wooden spoon and combine ingredients with care in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe to prevent breaking apart the soft feta and burst tomatoes, which creates the dish’s beautiful rustic appearance.

Common TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe Mistakes to Avoid

Understanding what typically goes wrong helps you succeed on your first attempt at making TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Overcooking the tomatoes: Baking tomatoes beyond 20 minutes causes them to collapse completely and lose their shape in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. The burst should be dramatic but controlled, with tomato skins intact but beginning to split. Solution: Set a timer and check tomatoes at 18 minutes to prevent overdoing this critical stage of the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Using cold feta straight from the refrigerator: Ice-cold feta won’t incorporate smoothly into your warm pasta for the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. The cheese remains in hard clumps rather than creating a creamy, distributed sauce. Solution: Remove feta from the refrigerator 15 to 20 minutes before cooking to allow it to soften slightly for optimal results in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Not reserving pasta cooking water: Many home cooks drain pasta and don’t save the starch-rich liquid, which is the secret ingredient for the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe sauce. Without it, you get separated oil and tomato juice rather than an emulsified sauce. Solution: Always reserve at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining and add it gradually until your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe reaches the desired consistency.

Skipping the basil garnish: Cooking all the basil into the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe means you miss the bright, fresh flavor that fresh-added herbs provide. The volatile compounds in basil dissipate with heat, so adding it at the end preserves its aromatic qualities in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Using low-quality olive oil: The oil is a key ingredient in TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe, not just a cooking medium, so cheap or rancid olive oil compromises the entire dish. Solution: Invest in a good extra virgin olive oil and taste it before adding to ensure it’s fresh and flavorful for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Best TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe Variations and Substitutions

The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe adapts beautifully to different tastes, dietary needs, and ingredient availability while maintaining its essential character.

IngredientSubstitutionImpact on Flavor
Feta cheeseGoat cheese or ricottaGoat cheese adds tanginess; ricotta becomes creamier in the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe but less salty
Cherry tomatoesGrape tomatoes or quartered regular tomatoesSlightly different sweetness levels; adjust baking time accordingly for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Fresh basilFresh oregano or parsleyOregano adds earthiness; parsley provides mild herbal notes different from TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe basil
Red pepper flakesFresh chili or black pepper onlyFresh chili adds bright heat; omitting creates milder TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe for sensitive palates
Regular pastaWhole wheat, gluten-free, or chickpea pastaEach has different texture; nutty flavor from whole wheat complements TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe well
Extra virgin olive oilLight olive oil or vegetable oilLighter oils work but lack the complex flavor profile characteristic of authentic TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
GarlicGarlic powder or skip entirelyPowder provides similar flavor; use 1.5 teaspoons for equivalent of 4 cloves fresh in TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe
Lemon juiceWhite wine vinegar or lime juiceVinegar adds tanginess; lime provides different citrus brightness to the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe

The core concept of TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe remains intact with these variations, proving its flexibility and universal appeal to different cooks and preferences.

Serving Suggestions for TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe

Transform your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe into a complete meal by pairing it with complementary dishes and drinks that enhance its Mediterranean character.

Bread pairings: Serve TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe with crusty garlic bread or toasted ciabatta to soak up the flavorful oil and tomato juices. A simple olive oil and herbs bread complements the fresh flavors without competing with your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Vegetable sides: A crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the feta in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. Grilled asparagus, roasted zucchini, or fresh spinach sautéed with garlic all pair beautifully with TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Protein additions: For a heartier TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe, add grilled chicken breast, pan-seared halibut, or white beans during the final stages of cooking. Chickpeas add protein and creaminess to vegetarian versions of your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Beverage pairings: The bright acidity of the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, serve with sparkling water with fresh lemon or iced herbal tea to complement your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Occasion ideas: Present TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe for summer dinner parties, romantic date nights, or casual weeknight dinners that feel special. The visual appeal of TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe makes it perfect for gatherings where you want impressive presentation without hours of cooking time.

Topping additions: Garnish your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe with toasted pine nuts, fresh microgreens, or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture. A drizzle of your finest olive oil finishes TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe beautifully and adds professional polish to home-cooked results.

tiktok tomato feta pasta recipe
TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe: Viral Cherry Tomato Pasta That's Easy to Make 2026 21

Storage and Reheating for TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe

Proper storage ensures your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe maintains quality and safety while allowing for convenient meal prep and leftovers.

MethodDurationInstructions
Refrigerator Storage3 to 4 daysCool TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container, where the sauce continues to infuse flavors and textures
Freezer Storage2 to 3 monthsFreeze TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe in individual portions using freezer bags or containers; thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating gently
Microwave Reheating2 to 3 minutesPlace TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe in microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on 50% power stirring halfway through to prevent heating unevenly
Stovetop Reheating3 to 5 minutesWarm TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to restore sauce consistency
Make-Ahead PreparationUp to 8 hoursPrepare TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe up to 8 hours in advance by roasting tomatoes and making sauce, then combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving
Food Safety NoteAlwaysTikTok tomato feta pasta recipe contains dairy, so never leave it at room temperature longer than 2 hours; discard if left out longer for safety

The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe actually develops deeper flavors as it sits due to the infusion of oil and tomato juice into the feta and pasta. Store in airtight containers to prevent the dish from absorbing refrigerator odors while maintaining moisture in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

tiktok tomato feta pasta recipe
TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe: Viral Cherry Tomato Pasta That's Easy to Make 2026 22

Nutritional Information for TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe

The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe provides excellent nutritional balance with protein from feta, carbohydrates from pasta, and healthy fats from olive oil.

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories480 calories
Protein14 grams
Fat24 grams
Saturated Fat8 grams
Carbohydrates52 grams
Dietary Fiber3 grams
Sugar6 grams
Sodium380 milligrams

These approximate values are based on standard USDA measurements for the ingredients in TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe provides substantial protein and fiber while using high-quality unsaturated fats that support heart health. Nutritional content may vary based on specific brand choices and portion sizes used in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe

Can I make TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?

Yes, prepare the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe sauce by roasting the tomatoes and mixing with feta up to 8 hours in advance. Store the roasted tomato and feta mixture separately from cooked pasta, then combine them with freshly cooked al dente pasta just before serving to maintain the best texture in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. This approach ensures your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe tastes fresh and has the perfect consistency when guests arrive.

What’s the best pasta shape for TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe?

Short, chunky pasta shapes like pappardelle, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best for TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe because they trap the sauce effectively and showcase the burst tomatoes. Delicate pastas like angel hair don’t hold the substantial sauce and burst tomatoes as well in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. Choose whichever shape you love most since the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe works beautifully with any pasta you prefer.

How do I know when the tomatoes are perfectly roasted for TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe?

Properly roasted tomatoes in the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe should have skin that splits and begins to char on the edges while maintaining their shape. The oil around them may turn slightly brownish, and the tomatoes release their juices into the bottom of the pan for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. If tomatoes collapse completely into a puddle, you’ve roasted them too long for optimal results in the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes in TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe?

Sun-dried tomatoes create a different flavor profile than fresh cherry tomatoes in the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe, becoming more concentrated and chewy. You’d need to rehydrate sun-dried tomatoes first and use significantly less quantity since their flavor is more intense than fresh tomatoes in TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. Fresh cherry tomatoes provide the burst effect and fresh taste that defines authentic TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

What should I do if my TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe sauce is too oily?

If your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe seems overly oily, you likely need more pasta water to create a proper emulsion that incorporates the oil smoothly. Add reserved pasta water gradually while stirring constantly to help emulsify the oil into a silky sauce for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. The starch in pasta water binds the oil and tomato juice together, creating the desired consistency in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

How can I make TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe spicier for heat lovers?

Increase the red pepper flakes from 0.5 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon for noticeably more heat in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. You can also add sliced fresh chili peppers to the oil at the beginning of cooking to infuse the entire sauce with heat for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. Taste as you add spice since the heat intensifies slightly as your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe sits.

Can I make TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe with frozen cherry tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes are strongly recommended for TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe since they need to caramelize and burst properly in the oven. Frozen tomatoes already have broken cell walls and release too much liquid, preventing the beautiful burst and caramelization that defines TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. Use fresh or canned whole tomatoes if fresh cherry tomatoes aren’t available for your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe.

Is it safe to make TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe in a non-cast iron baking dish?

Yes, any oven-safe baking dish works fine for making TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe, though cast iron distributes heat more evenly. Glass and ceramic baking dishes may require slightly lower oven temperature to prevent over-browning on bottom of your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe. Avoid non-oven-safe cookware and ensure your chosen vessel can handle 400°F temperature for proper TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe results.

What’s the best vegan variation for TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe?

Replace the feta cheese with crumbled tofu, cashew cheese, or store-bought vegan feta in your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe for a completely plant-based version. Use olive oil generously in the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe since it provides richness that feta typically adds. The core technique and roasting method for TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe remains unchanged in vegan versions.

How long does TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe last if left at room temperature?

TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe containing dairy should never sit at room temperature longer than 2 hours due to food safety guidelines. Bacteria multiply rapidly in the temperature danger zone between 40°F and 140°F, so refrigerate leftovers of your TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe immediately after eating. When serving TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe at gatherings, keep it warm in an insulated container or return it to refrigeration between servings.

Final Thoughts on TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe

The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe deserves all the viral attention it receives because it genuinely delivers exceptional results with minimal effort and ingredients. This TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe proves that impressive dinners don’t require complex techniques or exotic ingredients, just intentional choices and proper execution. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or dinner guests, the TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe elevates any occasion and satisfies even the most discerning palates. The beauty lies in how simple components transform through roasting and emulsification into something that tastes restaurant-quality and absolutely unforgettable. Make this TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe tonight and experience the magic of burst tomatoes, creamy feta, and silky pasta combining into pure Mediterranean deliciousness.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

homemade mounds bars 3 ingredients
berry cottage cheese breakfast bowl
healthy chocolate coconut snack cake gluten free
chocolate chip cookie dough brownie bites
bariatric gelatin recipe for weight loss
silken tofu miso dressing recipe
pink gelatin trick recipe for weight loss
caribbean curry bowl homemade recipe
tiktok ramen noodles recipe
mango sago pudding recipe
no butter single serve chocolate chip recipe
instant mango ice cream with cool whip curry
chana masala instant pot zero oil

Expert Resources and Food Safety

Learn more about pasta cooking methods from Bon Appétit’s pasta guide and food safety practices from the FDA’s food storage guidelines.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
tiktok tomato feta pasta recipe

Viral TikTok Tomato Feta Pasta Recipe 2026

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

The TikTok tomato feta pasta recipe is a viral Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish with burst cherry tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, fresh basil, and silky pasta sauce.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds cherry tomatoes
  • 1.5 cups feta cheese, about 8 ounces, crumbled
  • 1 pound pasta, any shape
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh basil, loosely packed and divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F with the rack in the middle position.
  2. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
  3. Mince the garlic cloves into small, even pieces.
  4. Measure 1 cup fresh basil and divide it in half.
  5. Crumble the feta cheese into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  6. Pour the extra virgin olive oil into a large baking dish or cast iron skillet.
  7. Add the minced garlic to the oil and distribute evenly across the bottom of the dish.
  8. Add the red pepper flakes and stir to combine.
  9. Arrange the dried cherry tomatoes in a single layer over the oil mixture.
  10. Season the tomatoes generously with sea salt and black pepper.
  11. Scatter half of the fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes.
  12. Bake for 20 minutes, until the tomato skins burst and the edges begin to char slightly.
  13. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil while the tomatoes bake.
  14. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  15. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  16. Remove the baking dish from the oven once the tomatoes have burst and browned slightly.
  17. Scatter the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the hot roasted tomatoes.
  18. Add the cooked pasta directly to the baking dish.
  19. Stir gently to combine the pasta, tomatoes, feta, and oil.
  20. Pour in reserved pasta water gradually while stirring until a silky sauce coats the pasta.
  21. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and toss gently.
  22. Garnish with the remaining fresh basil.
  23. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use fresh cherry tomatoes and full-fat feta for the best flavor and texture. Always reserve pasta water before draining because the starch helps create the silky sauce. Add lemon juice and fresh basil at the end for the brightest flavor.

  • Author: Mark
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star