Feta Pasta Bake Recipe

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

In a 9 x 13 glass or ceramic baking dish (or equivalent) add tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic cloves, and olives. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt to taste, and drizzle with olive oil and toss well to distribute the oil.

Nestle the feta among the tomatoes and peppers, and turn once to coat it with oil. Tuck in the fresh herb sprigs. Bake in the oven for 35 minutes, uncovered. Broil for another 5 minutes for a nice flavorful light char on the veggies.

While it is baking, boil a pot of salted water and cook pasta according to the package. (Salted water optional, but more flavorful). Drain and reserve 1/2 cup (or more) of pasta water.

Remove the sprigs of herbs. Mash the feta and garlic cloves. Mix hot, drained pasta into the feta mixture, and stir in some pasta water to create more of a sauce if desired. Start with a few tablespoons and add more as needed.

Taste, adjust salt and pepper to taste. Add the red wine vinegar to add more acid if needed.

Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve with salad and crusty bread.