Pin A vibrant, oven-baked pasta packed with Mediterranean flavors, featuring roasted garlic, fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy feta. A comforting vegetarian dish perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
I first discovered this dish when looking for an easy, flavorful vegetarian meal that the whole family would enjoy.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne or rigatoni, 1 tablespoon olive oil, Salt for boiling
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 medium red onion finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 100 g (3.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes drained and sliced, 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach
- Sauce & Cheese: 400 g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional), 150 g (5 oz) feta cheese crumbled, 50 g (2 oz) grated Parmesan cheese, Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil, Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a large baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Step 3:
- While pasta cooks, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic, bell pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes cook for 2 3 minutes more.
- Step 4:
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, chili flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
- Step 6:
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce and half the feta in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining feta and Parmesan.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Step 9:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Pin This recipe has become a favorite family meal that brings everyone together around the table.
Required Tools
Large pot, Skillet, Baking dish, Mixing bowl, Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (feta, Parmesan). Check cheese labels for vegetarian suitability if needed.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 18 g per serving
Pin This Mediterranean baked garlic & herb pasta is a simple and satisfying meal perfect for sharing.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use different pasta shapes for this dish?
Yes, penne or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well, but other tubular pasta shapes can be used depending on preference.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking during baking?
Cook the pasta slightly under al dente before baking so it finishes cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
- → What can I substitute for feta cheese if unavailable?
Ricotta salata, goat cheese, or a plant-based cheese alternative can provide a similar tangy and creamy texture.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, replace the feta and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives and ensure all other ingredients comply with vegan preferences.
- → Can I add protein to this pasta?
Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables are excellent additions for extra protein and texture.