When I first heard about Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta, I thought it was just another food trend. I’d seen a million viral recipes, all promising the best meal of your life. But then I gave it a shot one weekend when I was craving something simple yet hearty. The moment I tasted it, I knew it was special. The combination of roasted feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and pasta just worked in a way I hadn’t expected. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent but also light at the same time. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Now, every time I’m in the mood for something quick yet satisfying, this is my go-to.
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta Recipe
If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you’ve probably seen this recipe pop up everywhere. It’s not just a food trend; it’s a new classic. Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta combines the salty richness of feta with the sweetness of tomatoes. Roasting them together in the oven intensifies the flavors, creating a creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. The whole process takes less than an hour, which is perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a weekend treat when you don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
To make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta, you don’t need anything too fancy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Feta cheese: The star of the show! You want a block of feta, not crumbled.
- Cherry tomatoes: These burst in the oven and bring a beautiful sweetness to the dish.
- Olive oil: For roasting the feta and tomatoes. It adds richness and helps to create the sauce.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic give the dish a fragrant kick.
- Pasta: Any type you like, though spaghetti or penne are usually the best choices.
- Fresh herbs: Basil or oregano works great, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Essential for bringing out the flavors.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta
I still remember the first time I made this. It was late on a Saturday, and I was scrolling through my Instagram feed when I saw this recipe again. I’d been curious about it for a while, but I was skeptical-until I realized it had only a few steps. Here’s how it went down:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the baking tray: Place a block of feta in the center. Surround it with halved cherry tomatoes, and add a few whole garlic cloves (don’t bother peeling them).
- Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes. Season generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything around a bit.
- Roast for 30 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the feta has slightly browned.
- While the feta and tomatoes roast, cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- Combine the roasted feta and tomatoes with the cooked pasta. Gently toss everything together until the feta breaks down into a creamy sauce.
- Add fresh herbs (I love basil here) and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness!
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s take a quick dive into the science behind a few key ingredients in this recipe:
- Feta Cheese: It’s a brined cheese made from sheep’s milk or a mix of sheep and goat’s milk. The unique tanginess comes from the brine, which gives it a more intense flavor. When roasted, feta softens and turns creamy, making it a perfect base for a sauce.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are rich in umami, the savory taste that deepens as they roast. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness, balancing the feta’s salty profile. When tomatoes burst in the oven, they release juice, mixing with the olive oil to form a luscious sauce.
- Garlic: Roasting garlic mellows out its sharpness, transforming it into a buttery, sweet addition that infuses the entire dish.
The balance of these elements is what makes the dish so comforting, while also fresh and vibrant.
Expert Tips
- Use high-quality feta: Not all feta is made equal. Opt for a block of feta packed in brine for the best texture and flavor. It’ll melt better and become creamy when roasted.
- Add a splash of pasta water: Once the pasta is mixed with the feta-tomato sauce, add a little bit of the pasta cooking water. The starch in the water helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
- Try different herbs: While fresh basil is fantastic, you could swap it for oregano, thyme, or even a bit of lemon zest for a different twist.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat. It adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy feta perfectly.
- Don’t skip the garlic: It might seem like a small ingredient, but roasted garlic gives a wonderful depth to the dish that is hard to replicate.
Recipe Variations
- Add veggies: You can throw in some roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach along with the tomatoes to bulk up the dish and add more nutrients.
- Switch up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or ricotta for a different creamy base.
- Protein boost: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal. The flavors of the roasted feta and tomatoes complement meat beautifully.
- Vegan version: Swap the feta for a plant-based cheese or skip it altogether and use extra olive oil and nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free alternative.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta has become a household favorite for good reason. It’s a meal that’s so simple, yet so flavorful. Every time I make it, it reminds me that great food doesn’t always have to be complicated. It’s one of those dishes you can rely on when you’re tired or don’t have much time, but still want to eat something delicious and comforting.
FAQs
How Long Should I Roast The Feta For In Jamie Oliver’s Pasta Recipe?
You should roast the feta for about 30 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until it’s golden and soft.
Can I Use A Different Cheese Instead Of Feta For Jamie Oliver’s Pasta?
Yes, you can try goat cheese or ricotta, but feta gives it the best flavor and texture.
What Kind Of Pasta Works Best For Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta?
Any pasta will work, but spaghetti or penne are great choices for this dish.