Save 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.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a large baking dish.
- Step 2:
- 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.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, chili flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
- Step 6:
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce and half the feta in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining feta and Parmesan.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Step 9:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Save 
Save This Mediterranean Baked Garlic & Herb Pasta is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner packed with wholesome ingredients.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or rigatoni are ideal for holding sauce and baking evenly in this dish.
- → Can I add protein to this meal?
Yes, grilled chicken or chickpeas make great protein additions without overpowering flavors.
- → How do sun-dried tomatoes affect flavor?
They add a rich, tangy depth balancing the creamy feta and aromatic herbs.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and ensure all other ingredients comply with vegan preferences.
- → What herbs enhance the dish's Mediterranean profile?
Dried oregano, basil, and fresh parsley or basil garnish bring authentic Mediterranean aroma and taste.