Save to Pinterest 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 have always enjoyed Mediterranean flavors and this baked pasta combines all my favorites in one dish that’s both easy and impressive.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a large baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- 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.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- 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.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in chopped tomatoes oregano basil chili flakes and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add Spinach:
- Add spinach and cook until wilted about 1 minute.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce and half the feta in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Assemble Dish:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining feta and Parmesan.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become a family favorite especially during cozy weeknight dinners where everyone asks for seconds.
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 per serving Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 59 g Protein 18 g
Save to Pinterest This baked pasta is both simple and flavorful perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → What pasta works best in this dish?
Penne or rigatoni are ideal as they hold the sauce well and maintain a firm texture when baked.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added for extra protein while maintaining the vibrant flavors.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking in the oven?
Cook the pasta slightly less than al dente before combining with the sauce, so it finishes perfectly during baking.
- → Are there any good substitutions for the cheeses?
For a different twist, use plant-based cheese alternatives or swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the mixture and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for a fresh, hot finish.