A creamy and tangy pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese for a quick, satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, this pasta recipe is easy to make and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and chopped
• 8 oz block feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil (from the sun-dried tomatoes jar)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the feta block in the center of a baking dish. Surround with sun-dried tomatoes and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper over everything.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until tomatoes are blistered and feta is golden on top.
4. While baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
5. Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes into a creamy sauce.
6. Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and spinach to the dish. Stir until the spinach wilts and the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving, if desired.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 14 g
• Fat: 21 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sodium: 560 mg

Flavor Profile and Taste Experience

Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Pasta offers a unique combination of rich, tangy, and creamy flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated sweetness and slight chewiness, while the feta cheese delivers a salty and tangy creaminess. When combined with garlic, olive oil, and roasted cherry tomatoes, the dish becomes a savory delight that balances brightness with depth.

Cultural Influence

This pasta dish is heavily inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Greek and Italian flavors. The use of feta cheese, olive oil, and sun-dried tomatoes reflects the classic components often found in meals from these regions, making the dish feel both rustic and gourmet.

Ideal Serving Occasions

Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Pasta is versatile and fits a variety of occasions. It makes a hearty weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or even a vibrant side dish for gatherings and potlucks. Its colorful presentation also makes it a great choice for dinner parties or special family meals.

Time-Saving Qualities

This recipe is perfect for busy individuals or families looking for a quick and flavorful meal. With a total cooking time of around 30–40 minutes, it fits well into weeknight meal plans. Most of the preparation is hands-off while the dish bakes, allowing time for multitasking.

Texture and Mouthfeel

The texture of this pasta is dynamic. The baked feta turns into a creamy sauce, the sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy bite, and the roasted cherry tomatoes burst with juiciness. When tossed with al dente pasta and fresh spinach, the resulting combination is satisfying with every forkful.

Vegetarian-Friendly Option

This recipe is entirely vegetarian, making it suitable for those who do not consume meat. It provides ample protein and richness through the feta cheese and vegetables, creating a hearty meatless meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.

Potential Variations

Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Pasta can be adapted in several ways. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra protein. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. Swap out spinach for kale or arugula, or incorporate mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance the vegetable content.

Storage and Reheating

This pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to restore creaminess. It can be warmed in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat for best texture retention.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the flavorful sauce. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness. For beverages, pair with white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy sparkling water.

Health Benefits

Packed with vegetables and olive oil, the dish provides antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Spinach adds fiber, iron, and vitamins, while tomatoes offer lycopene and vitamin C. Using whole grain pasta can further increase fiber content and support digestive health.

Ingredient Quality Matters

The simplicity of the recipe means that ingredient quality significantly impacts the final taste. Use high-quality feta (preferably block feta in brine), good extra virgin olive oil, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes for best results. Cherry tomatoes should be ripe and sweet to balance the dish’s tanginess.

Popularity and Social Appeal

This dish gained significant popularity due to social media trends, especially during periods when home cooking surged. It became widely appreciated for its simplicity, visual appeal, and bold flavor. Many home cooks embraced the recipe for its minimal effort and impressive results.

Dietary Considerations

Those watching sodium intake should be mindful of the feta and sun-dried tomatoes, which can be high in salt. To reduce sodium, consider using a low-sodium feta or rinsing the cheese before use. Gluten-free pasta can easily be substituted to accommodate gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

Kids and Family Appeal

The creamy texture and vibrant color often appeal to children and picky eaters. You can finely chop the spinach or omit it entirely to make the dish more kid-friendly. Its ease of preparation also makes it a good recipe for involving kids in the kitchen.

Sustainability and Ingredient Sourcing

Choosing locally produced feta, tomatoes, and spinach can reduce the environmental impact of your meal. Buying sun-dried tomatoes in bulk or in jars without unnecessary packaging helps promote sustainable practices. Composting kitchen scraps from the recipe can also be a step toward reducing food waste.

Meal Prep Potential

This pasta works well as part of a meal prep routine. Prepare it in advance, portion it out, and store in containers for up to three days. It maintains its flavor and consistency, making it an excellent choice for work lunches or ready-to-heat dinners.

Cooking Equipment Needed

The recipe requires minimal kitchen tools: a baking dish, a pot for boiling pasta, a knife, a spoon, and a colander. It’s an ideal option for those with limited equipment or small kitchen spaces, including college students or anyone cooking in a rental space.

Ingredient Substitutions

Goat cheese or cream cheese can be used instead of feta for a different tangy profile. If sun-dried tomatoes are unavailable, oven-roasted tomatoes make a fine substitute. Dried basil or Italian seasoning can replace fresh herbs if needed.

Balanced Macronutrients

With a good mix of carbs, fat, and protein, the dish provides energy while keeping you full. The feta cheese contributes protein and fat, while the pasta provides carbohydrates. Vegetables round out the meal with fiber and essential micronutrients.

Conclusion

Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Pasta is more than just a viral trend—it’s a delicious, nourishing, and versatile meal that anyone can prepare. It celebrates bold Mediterranean flavors while remaining accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re making it for a solo dinner or feeding a family, it’s a reliable recipe that offers comfort, convenience, and plenty of room for customization. With its vibrant colors, rich taste, and minimal ingredients, this pasta dish earns a well-deserved spot in the rotation of easy go-to meals.