Save A vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring creamy baked feta, hearty chickpeas, and sweet roasted tomatoes, all served over your choice of pasta or rice for an affordable, satisfying meal.
I first made this when craving something hearty but quick after work. It has since become my go-to for busy weeknights thanks to its easy prep and rich, comforting flavors.
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
- Dried pasta or uncooked rice: 300 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) or 250 g rice
- Fresh basil or parsley: chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges: optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Combine base ingredients:
- Add cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, garlic, and olive oil to a large baking dish. Sprinkle with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
- Add feta:
- Place the block of feta in the center of the dish, nestled among the tomatoes and chickpeas. Drizzle olive oil over it.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is golden and soft.
- Prepare pasta or rice:
- Cook the pasta or rice as instructed on the package. Drain and set aside.
- Mash and mix:
- Once baked, gently mash the feta and stir into the tomatoes and chickpeas to form a creamy sauce.
- Serve:
- Spoon mixture over pasta or rice. Garnish with basil or parsley and lemon if desired.
Save This recipe brings everyone to the table—a favorite for family dinners when we need something comforting yet nutritious. The leftovers are even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!
Required Tools
Large baking dish, saucepan for pasta or rice, colander, knife and chopping board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and gluten if using regular pasta. Make it gluten-free by choosing gluten-free options. Always check labels on pre-packaged ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Per serving with pasta: Calories: 480, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 62 g, Protein: 18 g
Save Enjoy vibrant Mediterranean flavors and easy cleanup thanks to this hearty, nutritious recipe. It is sure to become a weeknight staple.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of cheese is used in this dish?
A block of creamy feta cheese is baked with the tomatoes and chickpeas to create a rich sauce.
- → Can I use rice instead of pasta?
Yes, this dish pairs equally well with cooked rice or pasta, depending on your preference.
- → How can I add more greens to this meal?
Try mixing in fresh spinach or chopped kale before baking to boost the vegetable content.
- → Is there an option to make this plant-based?
You can substitute vegan feta to keep it dairy-free while maintaining the creamy texture.
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
Dried oregano and optional red pepper flakes add Mediterranean warmth and subtle heat to the dish.