Jamie Oliver’s Feta & Tomato Pasta is a delightful and straightforward dish that brings together the creamy tang of feta cheese with the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal, combining fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs to create a flavorful sauce that complements your choice of pasta.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish offers a taste of Mediterranean cuisine that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.
Key Takeaways
- The Feta & Tomato Pasta is a quick and easy dish that combines creamy feta cheese with sweet tomatoes, making it perfect for a satisfying meal.
- Customization is encouraged; you can substitute feta with other cheeses, add various proteins, or experiment with different herbs to suit your taste.
- The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making this recipe convenient for meal prep.
Feta & Tomato Pasta Recipe by Jamie Oliver
Ingredients
- 400g ripe mixed-colour cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 fresh red chilli
- 6 black olives, stone in
- ½ a bunch of basil (15g)
- olive oil
- red wine vinegar
- 125g feta cheese
- 300g dried orecchiette or your favourite dried pasta
- optional: extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cut the tomatoes in half, peel and finely slice the garlic, then halve and slice the chili (deseed it if you prefer). Crush, pit, and tear the olives into pieces, and place everything into the air fryer basket. Finely chop the basil stalks, saving the leaves for later, and sprinkle them into the basket as well.
- Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ tablespoon of red wine vinegar, and season with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Break the feta into three chunks and place them on top of the other ingredients in the basket. Air fry for 15 minutes at 200°C, or until the tomatoes are soft and jammy and the feta turns golden and creamy.
- While the vegetables and feta are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked pasta directly into the air fryer basket with the tomatoes and feta. Tear most of the basil leaves into the basket and toss everything together. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding a splash of pasta cooking water if needed to loosen the mixture.
- Divide the pasta among bowls, top with the remaining basil leaves, and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil if desired. Serve and enjoy!
👨🍳 [DID YOU KNOW?] Interesting Facts about Jamie Oliver’s Feta & Tomato Pasta
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Air Fryer Efficiency: Using the air fryer to roast tomatoes and feta gives the dish an intense, caramelized flavor while keeping the prep time short and simple.
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Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of basil, olives, and feta is a classic Mediterranean pairing, offering a blend of fresh, savory, and slightly tangy flavors.
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Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe with different types of pasta, like penne or spaghetti, and even substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
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Nutrient-Rich: Tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which supports heart health. Feta adds calcium and protein, making the dish satisfying and nutritious.
Nutritional Information
Assuming you follow Jamie Oliver’s Feta & Tomato Pasta recipe, you’ll enjoy a dish rich in flavor and crucial nutrients. This meal features feta cheese, a good source of protein and calcium, and ripe tomatoes, which are packed with antioxidants like lycopene. The combination of fresh herbs adds vital vitamins and enhances the dish’s overall health benefits. However, be mindful of the sodium content in feta, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Overall, this pasta provides a balanced, wholesome meal that satisfies your taste buds while supporting your nutritional needs.
Nutritional Information per Serving:
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Calories: ~450 kcal
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Protein: 15g
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Carbohydrates: 50g
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Sugars: 8g
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Fat: 20g
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Saturated Fat: 6g
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Fiber: 5g
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Salt: 1.3g
Wine Pairing
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White Wine:
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Sauvignon Blanc: Its fresh, zesty profile complements the bright flavors of the tomatoes and basil while cutting through the creaminess of the feta.
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Pinot Grigio: A light and crisp wine that pairs perfectly with the pasta’s fresh ingredients without overpowering the flavors.
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Red Wine:
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Pinot Noir: A light, fruity red wine with soft tannins that works well with the tomatoes and feta without overwhelming the dish.
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Gamay (Beaujolais): Its fresh, berry flavors and light body make it a great match for this dish’s Mediterranean flavors.
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Beer:
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Pilsner: A crisp, refreshing pilsner enhances the freshness of the dish while providing a slight bitterness that complements the creamy feta.
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These insights will elevate the enjoyment of the dish, offering a deeper understanding of the flavors, nutritional benefits, and perfect drink pairings!
Tips for Success
You can elevate your Feta & Tomato Pasta experience with a few simple tips. Start by selecting the freshest ingredients; ripe tomatoes and high-quality feta cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to enhance the taste.
- Add your preferred protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition.
- Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days.
This approach guarantees a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Variations and Substitutions
There’s a wonderful world of variations and substitutions to explore with Jamie Oliver’s Feta & Tomato Pasta. If feta isn’t your preference, you can easily swap it for goat cheese or ricotta, each offering a unique twist on flavor. For those following a vegan diet, opt for a plant-based cheese alternative to maintain the creamy texture. You might also consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to boost the protein content. Fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme can enhance the dish, allowing you to customize your pasta experience to your liking.
To wrap up
On the whole, Jamie Oliver’s Feta & Tomato Pasta Recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking to create a quick, delicious meal that encapsulates Mediterranean flavors. With its ease of preparation and versatility, this dish allows you to explore various ingredient substitutions or enhancements, such as adding protein or experimenting with herbs. By following this recipe, you’ll not only enjoy a satisfying meal but also gain confidence in your cooking skills, making it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.
People Also Ask
There’s a lot to consider when preparing Jamie Oliver’s Feta & Tomato Pasta, so let’s address some common queries. You can easily substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a new flavor experience. If you follow a vegan diet, simply opt for a plant-based cheese instead. You can also boost your meal by adding protein sources like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. For added flair, use fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme. Lastly, the sauce can be prepared in advance and stored for up to two days, making this recipe convenient for busy schedules.
Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme work well, but feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs.Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Can I add protein to this pasta?
What herbs can I use in this recipe?
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?