Save A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring creamy baked feta, hearty chickpeas, and sweet roasted tomatoes is served over your choice of pasta or rice for an affordable, satisfying meal. This recipe creates a fuss-free vegetarian main that's both comforting and impressive for weeknights or entertaining.
I first made this dish on a busy evening, craving something hearty but healthy. The combination of tangy feta with roasted tomatoes and nutty chickpeas instantly became a staple in my kitchen.
Ingredients
- Feta cheese: 1 block (200 g)
- Chickpeas: 1 can (400 g), drained and rinsed
- Cherry tomatoes: 400 g, halved
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Pasta or rice: 300 g dried pasta (penne fusilli or spaghetti) or 250 g uncooked rice
- Fresh basil or parsley: chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges: optional for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Vegetables:
- In a large baking dish combine cherry tomatoes chickpeas garlic and olive oil. Sprinkle with oregano red pepper flakes salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add Feta:
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish nestling it among the tomatoes and chickpeas. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the feta.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and soft.
- Cook Pasta or Rice:
- Meanwhile cook the pasta or rice according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Create Creamy Sauce:
- Once baked gently mash the feta with a fork and stir it into the tomatoes and chickpeas to create a creamy sauce.
- Serve:
- Spoon the baked feta chickpea mixture over the cooked pasta or rice. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Save This colorful bake was a big hit when shared at a family gathering, especially when everyone could choose their favorite base and toppings.
Variations & Substitutions
Try adding spinach or chopped kale into the baking dish for a boost of greens. Use whole-wheat pasta or brown rice to increase fiber and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This baked feta chickpea dish pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a side of roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains dairy if using feta cheese and may contain gluten in some pasta. For gluten-free serve with rice or gluten-free pasta. Each serving with pasta provides about 480 calories 17 g fat 62 g carbohydrates and 18 g protein.
Save This one-dish meal is sure to impress and makes clean-up a breeze. Enjoy the comforting flavors and vibrant colors in every bite.
Cooking Questions
- → Can I substitute the pasta with rice?
Yes, this dish works equally well served over rice for a gluten-free or different texture option.
- → What herbs complement the baked feta and chickpeas?
Fresh basil, parsley, and dried oregano enhance the Mediterranean flavors and freshness of the dish.
- → How do I make the feta sauce creamy?
After baking, gently mash the softened feta with the roasted tomatoes and chickpeas to create a creamy, flavorful sauce.
- → Can I add greens to this dish?
Adding spinach or kale to the baking dish before cooking adds extra nutrients and a fresh contrast to the rich feta.
- → What cooking method is used for the feta and vegetables?
Baking infuses the feta with roasted tomato juices and chickpeas, softening the cheese and intensifying the flavors.