Save to Pinterest 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 baked feta chickpeas and tomatoes, the aroma filled my kitchen with memories of summer holidays by the Mediterranean coast. Mixing pantry staples with fresh ingredients, I discovered how simple it is to create something flavorful without much fuss.
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 (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) or 250 g rice
- Fresh basil or parsley: chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges: optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Vegetables:
- In a large baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, garlic, and olive oil. Sprinkle with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add Feta:
- Place the feta in the center of the baking dish, nestling it among tomatoes and chickpeas. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the feta.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and soft.
- Cook Pasta or Rice:
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta or rice according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- Gently mash the feta with a fork and stir it into the tomatoes and chickpeas to create a creamy sauce.
- Serve:
- Spoon the baked feta chickpea mixture over the cooked pasta or rice. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family loves to gather around the table for this meal. We each take turns scooping extra sauce onto our plates, sharing laughs and stories with every bite.
Required Tools
Large baking dish, saucepan, colander, knife, and chopping board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if using regular feta. Use gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free option. Always check labels if using pre-packaged ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving (with pasta): 480. Total fat: 17 g. Carbohydrates: 62 g. Protein: 18 g.
Save to Pinterest This dish is perfect for busy nights or easy entertaining. Enjoy the fresh flavors and creamy feta sauce every time!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with a vegan feta alternative for a dairy-free option or with halloumi for a firmer texture, but the creamy melting quality of feta is unique.
- → What is the best pasta choice for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but spaghetti works too. Alternatively, rice can be used for a gluten-free option.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Adding fresh spinach or chopped kale to the baking dish before cooking introduces extra greens and nutrients without overwhelming the flavors.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the ingredients in the baking dish and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Cook pasta or rice just before serving for best texture.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy feta and roasted tomatoes beautifully, enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.