Tomato, basil and feta spaghetti

Tomato, basil, and feta spaghetti combines cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy feta for a flavorful pasta dish. It's quick to prepare and perfect for any meal.

31 Dec 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
1/3 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1.50 cups basil leaves
3/4 cup feta cheese

Tomato, basil, and feta spaghetti is a delightful and refreshing dish that's perfect for any meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cherry tomatoes and fresh basil with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, all brought together with a good quality olive oil and perfectly cooked pasta. It's a quick and easy pasta dish that promises to impress both family and guests alike.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

2. Prepare the Tomato and Garlic Mixture:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.

3. Cook the Tomatoes:
1. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture.
2. Toss to combine, making sure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. If the mixture seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

5. Add Basil and Feta:
1. Remove the skillet from heat.
2. Stir in the torn basil leaves and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Toss gently to combine, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the feta and wilt the basil.

6. Serve:
1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates.
2. Optionally, drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.
3. Garnish with additional basil leaves and feta crumbles if desired.

7. Enjoy!

This tomato, basil, and feta spaghetti is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that creates a memorable meal. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, the aromatic freshness of basil, and the crumbly, salty taste of feta cheese complement each other remarkably. Follow these tips to ensure you get the best possible results every time you make this delightful dish.

Tomato, basil and feta spaghetti FAQ:

How long should I cook the pasta for this recipe?

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes around 8-12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor, but be aware that the texture and tanginess will differ.

What is the best way to store leftovers of this pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pasta.

How do I know when the cherry tomatoes are cooked properly?

Cook the cherry tomatoes for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices. They should be slightly tender but not completely mushy.

What can I use instead of olive oil if needed?

If you don't have olive oil, you can use other cooking oils like avocado or canola oil, but olive oil enhances the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.

Cooking Tips:

- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for the best quality olive oil, fresh basil, and ripe cherry tomatoes to elevate the overall flavor of the dish.

- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your pasta just until it is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.

- Sauté Garlic Properly: Sauté the garlic in olive oil until it's fragrant but not browned, as this will bring out its natural sweetness without burning it.

- Warm the Tomatoes: Lightly warming the cherry tomatoes allows them to release their juices, creating a simple yet delicious sauce.

- Add Basil at the End: Add fresh basil leaves toward the end of cooking to retain their vibrant flavor and green color.

- Crumbled Feta Cheese: Crumble the feta cheese over the warm pasta to allow it to slightly melt and mix with the other ingredients, enhancing the creaminess of the dish.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 450kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 3.88g
Sugar 4.66g
Fat 30g

Tomato, basil and feta spaghetti