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.
This is one of my go-to vegetarian dinners especially when I want something comforting but easy to throw together. The creamy feta paired with sweet tomatoes and chickpeas tastes like classic Mediterranean home cooking and is always a hit at my table.
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 (optional): 1/2 tsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) or uncooked rice: 300 g pasta or 250 g rice
- Fresh basil or parsley: chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional): for serving
Instructions
- Prep and bake:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). 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.
- Arrange feta:
- Place the feta cheese block in the center, nestling it among tomatoes and chickpeas. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the feta.
- Bake mixture:
- Bake for 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is golden and soft.
- Cook base:
- Meanwhile, cook pasta or rice according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Finish 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 pasta or rice. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon, if desired.
Save This colorful dish has been a staple for family dinners since my kids discovered they love chickpeas. It’s especially fun letting them help drizzle olive oil and scatter herbs on top before baking.
Required Tools
Large baking dish, saucepan, colander, knife, and chopping board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta cheese) and gluten (if using regular pasta). For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or rice. Always check labels if using pre-packaged ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (with pasta): Calories: 480, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 62 g, Protein: 18 g
Save Serve hot and enjoy the wonderful blend of creamy feta and tangy tomatoes for a wholesome, fuss-free dinner.
Recipe Guide
- → What cooking method is used for the feta and vegetables?
The feta, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and seasonings are combined in a baking dish and baked in the oven until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes soft and golden.
- → Can I use rice instead of pasta with this dish?
Yes, this dish can be served over cooked pasta or rice according to your preference, both work well to soak up the flavorful baked mixture.
- → How can I add some heat to this dish?
Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the tomato and chickpea mixture before baking to add a gentle spicy kick.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?
Swap traditional feta cheese for a vegan feta alternative to enjoy a plant-based version without compromising on creaminess.
- → What herbs complement the flavors best?
Fresh basil or parsley are recommended for garnish, adding a bright, fresh finish that complements the baked feta and roasted tomatoes.
- → Can I add greens to the dish?
Yes, adding spinach or chopped kale to the baking dish before roasting can provide extra nutrients and texture.