If you’re looking for a dish that brings together a burst of Mediterranean flavors with minimal fuss, the Baked Feta Pasta with Olives and Capers Recipe is exactly what you need. This vibrant dish combines juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, briny capers, and creamy baked feta, all mingling with perfectly cooked pasta and fresh basil. It’s comfort food with a gourmet touch, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays a starring role in delivering a harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that make this dish so unforgettable. From the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes to the salty tang of capers and the creamy richness of feta, every element counts.
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they soften beautifully when baked and create the sauce base.
- 1/2 cup olives: Add briny depth and a chewy texture, balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- 3 tablespoons capers with 1 tablespoon brine: Provide a bright, salty punch that livens up every bite.
- 1 small white onion (thinly sliced, about 1/3 cup): Offers subtle sweetness and a gentle crunch once roasted.
- 2 cloves garlic (thinly sliced): Infuse the dish with aromatic warmth and rich flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps everything bake to tender perfection and adds a silky mouthfeel.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle kick and complexity.
- 1 (8-oz) block feta cheese: The star of this recipe, turning delectably creamy when baked.
- 1/2 cup white wine: Adds subtle acidity and depth to the sauce while the feta bakes.
- 1 (12-oz) box uncooked pasta: Carries the rich, tangy sauce and provides satisfying substance.
- 1 handful fresh basil (thinly sliced, for serving): Brings freshness and vibrant color just before serving.
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta with Olives and Capers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a medium-large baking dish to prevent sticking and to help the ingredients roast evenly. This simple step sets the stage for that perfect texture you’ll fall in love with.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Baking Dish
Pour the cherry tomatoes, olives, capers (including the brine), thinly sliced onion, and garlic into the dish. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper, then toss everything together to coat the ingredients evenly. Nestle the block of feta cheese in the middle of the mixture and drizzle a little extra olive oil on top. Pour the white wine gently around the cheese—this adds a subtle tang and keeps the feta moist as it bakes.
Step 3: Bake Until Jammy and Tender
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes have burst and become jammy, and the feta has softened to a luscious creaminess. While this magic happens, cook your pasta according to package instructions so it’s ready to absorb all those incredible flavors.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Once out of the oven, give everything a good stir to break up the feta and create a rich, savory sauce from the roasted ingredients. Toss the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, adding the sliced fresh basil at the end for a fresh, herbal kick. Mix well so every noodle is coated in this irresistible blend. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciously warm, comforting vibes.
How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta with Olives and Capers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a must for this dish — its aromatic freshness perfectly balances the salty and tangy notes. If you want to get creative, try adding some toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to add a bit of texture and a touch of heat that will elevate your experience.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the baked feta pasta. Crispy garlic bread is another winner, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the dish family-style right from the baking dish on the table — it’s a conversation starter and invites everyone to dig in. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a few whole capers to make each serving look restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may even deepen overnight, but be sure to store the pasta separately if you want to keep the texture of the noodles from getting too soft.
Freezing
You can freeze the sauce portion without the pasta in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, then toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too but stirring halfway through helps distribute the heat evenly and retains the creamy texture of the feta sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Feta is key for that tangy, creamy texture, but if you’re adventurous, halloumi or goat cheese can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly and the texture may not be as creamy when baked.
What pasta shape works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal because they hold onto the sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use whatever you have on hand—the sauce is so flavorful that it complements nearly any pasta.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly. Just keep an eye on the baking time to make sure your vegan cheese softens nicely.
Is white wine necessary?
The white wine adds a lovely acidity that brightens the dish, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with vegetable broth mixed with a splash of lemon juice. It won’t be quite the same, but still delicious.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe isn’t inherently spicy, but you can easily add some heat with crushed red pepper flakes, either baked with the tomatoes or sprinkled on when serving. It’s a great way to customize the dish to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Feta Pasta with Olives and Capers Recipe is one of those feel-good meals that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Its burst of bright, savory flavors combined with creamy feta and tender pasta makes it a true crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your go-to dishes—trust me, it’s a game changer for busy weeknights and special occasions alike!
Print
Baked Feta Pasta with Olives and Capers Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Baked Feta Pasta with Olives and Capers is a delicious and easy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, briny olives, and capers. Baked until the tomatoes are perfectly jammy and the feta soft and creamy, then combined with tender pasta and fresh basil for a flavorful and comforting meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 1 small white onion, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/3 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 (8-oz) block feta cheese
Pantry Items
- 1/2 cup olives
- 3 tablespoons capers with 1 tablespoon brine
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 (12-oz) box uncooked pasta
Fresh Herbs
- 1 handful fresh basil, thinly sliced (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a medium-large baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: Add the cherry tomatoes, olives, capers with their brine, sliced onion, and garlic into the prepared dish. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together to mix evenly. Nestle the block of feta cheese in the center and drizzle a little more olive oil over the top. Pour the white wine around the cheese to add moisture and flavor during baking.
- Bake the Mixture: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will become soft and jammy, and the feta cheese will soften and become creamy. Simultaneously, cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Mix Pasta with Sauce and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Stir thoroughly to break up the feta and mix it with the softened tomatoes and other ingredients, forming a luscious sauce. Add the cooked pasta and fresh sliced basil to the dish, then toss everything to coat evenly. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a sturdy block of feta cheese for the best melting texture; avoid crumbly, pre-crumbled feta.
- The white wine adds acidity and depth but can be substituted with vegetable broth or water if you prefer no alcohol.
- Adjust the amount of capers and olives based on your preference for saltiness and brininess.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
