Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas is a wonderful dish that combines creamy feta, savory chickpeas, and sweet cherry tomatoes, all tossed with pasta. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal that’s both filling and satisfying. Whether you are cooking for yourself or guests, this dish is sure to please everyone.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas

Ingredients

• 200g pasta of choice
• 200g feta cheese
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the mix.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is melty.
5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
6. Once baked, stir the tomato mixture and feta together until creamy.
7. Toss with the cooked pasta.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.

How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas

Serve Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas warm, topped with fresh basil. This dish makes a great main course on its own, but you can also pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, just warm it up in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Tips to Make Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas

• Use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
• You can add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the dish for extra nutrition.
• Make sure to use good quality feta cheese for the best flavor.

Variation

For a vegan version, replace the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also skip the cheese altogether and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chickpeas or cherry tomatoes, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.

2. What if I don’t have chickpeas?
You can replace chickpeas with white beans or any other beans you have on hand.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.