Pin A vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring creamy baked feta, hearty chickpeas, and sweet roasted tomatoes, all served over your choice of pasta or rice for an affordable, satisfying meal.
The first time I made this, I was amazed by how the salty feta melts into the roasted tomatoes and chickpeas, creating a rich and comforting sauce. It became a staple for busy weeknights or when I craved something hearty yet light.
Ingredients
- Feta cheese: 1 block (200 g)
- Chickpeas: 1 can (400 g), drained and rinsed
- Cherry tomatoes: 400 g, halved
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp, optional
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Dried pasta or uncooked rice: 300 g pasta or 250 g rice
- Fresh basil or parsley: chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges: optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare baking dish:
- In a large baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, garlic, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add feta:
- Place the feta block in the center, nestling it among the tomatoes and chickpeas. Drizzle with a little more olive oil.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until tomatoes burst and feta is golden and soft.
- Cook pasta or rice:
- While the vegetables bake, cook pasta or rice according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Create sauce:
- When baked, gently mash the feta and stir into the tomato and chickpea mixture to make a creamy sauce.
- Serve:
- Spoon the mixture over pasta or rice. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and lemon, if desired.
Pin This dish always brings the family together around the table, with everyone digging in and sharing stories of their day. It is especially loved on nights when comfort food is needed most.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh green salad and crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you prep this ahead? Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake, or bake and store leftovers for up to 2 days.
Nutrition Highlights
Each serving (with pasta) provides about 480 calories, 17 g fat, 62 g carbohydrates, and 18 g protein, making it a balanced vegetarian meal.
Pin This simple dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy nights or easy entertaining. Enjoy the combination of creamy feta and sweet roasted tomatoes any time!
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Yes, a vegan feta alternative or a mild crumbly cheese can be used to maintain creaminess and flavor.
- → What pasta types work best with this dish?
Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti pair well, holding the sauce effectively. Whole-wheat pasta is also a good choice for added fiber.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta or substitute rice instead of traditional pasta to avoid gluten.
- → Is it possible to add greens to the dish?
Yes, spinach or chopped kale can be added to the baking dish for extra nutrients and color.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish's flavors beautifully.