Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta

Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta is a simple, flavorful dish that combines the creamy texture of roasted feta with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and al dente pasta. This easy recipe delivers a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce with minimal effort, making it perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Roasted Feta Pasta?

This dish features a block of feta cheese roasted alongside cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil until soft and caramelized. The baked ingredients are then mashed into a creamy sauce before being tossed with pasta, creating a perfectly balanced meal with a rich, tangy flavor profile.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Minimal ingredients: Requires only a handful of pantry staples.
• Incredibly easy: A one-pan dish that simplifies dinner prep.
• Packed with flavor: The feta’s salty tang pairs beautifully with sweet roasted tomatoes.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, proteins, or different herbs to suit your taste.
• Quick to prepare: A satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta

• Feta cheese (1 block, around 200g) – The star of the dish, creamy and tangy.
• Cherry tomatoes (500g) – Provides sweetness and depth.
• Garlic cloves (3-4, minced) – Infuse the sauce with aromatic flavor.
• Olive oil (4 tbsp) – Enhances roasting and brings richness.
• Dried oregano (1 tsp) – Adds a Mediterranean touch.
• Red chili flakes (optional, ½ tsp) – For a subtle kick.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Balances flavors.
• Pasta (300g, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti) – The perfect base for the sauce.
• Fresh basil (a handful, chopped) – For a fresh, herby finish.
• Lemon zest (1 tsp, optional) – Adds a hint of brightness.

Equipment Needed

• Baking dish – To roast the feta and tomatoes.
• Mixing bowl – For tossing the pasta.
• Pot for boiling pasta – To cook the pasta to perfection.
• Fork or spoon – For mashing the feta and tomatoes.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping herbs and garlic.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Prepare the ingredients: Place the block of feta in the center of a baking dish. Scatter the cherry tomatoes around it, then drizzle everything with olive oil.
3. Season the dish: Sprinkle minced garlic, dried oregano, red chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the feta and tomatoes. Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.
4. Roast the feta and tomatoes: Bake for 25 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta turns soft and golden.
5. Cook the pasta: While the feta is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Mash the sauce: Remove the baking dish from the oven and use a fork to mash the softened feta and tomatoes into a creamy sauce. Stir in lemon zest for extra brightness.
7. Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, tossing to coat it in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the consistency.
8. Garnish and serve: Stir in fresh basil and serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta?

• Grilled chicken or shrimp: Adds protein to make it a complete meal.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
• Side salad: A crisp green salad with lemon dressing balances the richness.
• Roasted vegetables: Such as zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• A glass of white wine: Pairs well with the salty feta and roasted tomatoes.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta

• Use high-quality feta: Opt for block feta rather than pre-crumbled for the creamiest texture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta absorbs the sauce better without becoming mushy.
• Roast until caramelized: Let the tomatoes burst and feta turn golden for maximum flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and tweak with additional salt, pepper, or lemon zest.
• Experiment with add-ins: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives can add extra dimension.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta

• Spicy version: Add extra chili flakes or a chopped red chili for more heat.
• Vegetable-packed: Mix in roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Creamier texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
• Whole wheat pasta: A healthier alternative for more fiber.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for dietary needs.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing: The texture of feta may change when frozen, becoming grainy.
• Separate pasta and sauce: If planning to store, keep pasta and sauce separate to prevent sogginess.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Roasted Feta Pasta

• Stovetop reheating: Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil.
• Microwave option: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to maintain creaminess.
• Avoid overheating: Overcooked feta can become dry, so reheat gently for the best results.

FAQs

Can I make roasted feta pasta with a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with ricotta, goat cheese, or even a soft, creamy cheese like Boursin. Keep in mind that different cheeses will affect the final flavor and texture of the dish.

How can I make this dish less salty?

Feta can be quite salty, so you can soak it in water for 10-15 minutes before roasting to mellow the saltiness. Additionally, using low-sodium pasta water and reducing added salt in the seasoning can help balance the flavors.

What type of pasta works best for roasted feta pasta?

Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works well as it holds the sauce in its ridges. Spaghetti and linguine are also great options if you prefer a more traditional pasta texture.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the feta and tomatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently in the oven, cook fresh pasta, and mix everything together.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Roasted Feta Pasta is an effortlessly delicious dish that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. The combination of roasted feta, caramelized cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil creates a creamy, rich sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta. Happy cooking!

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