Summer Tomato Basil Pasta with Creamy Feta
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this vibrant and refreshing Summer Tomato Basil Pasta with Creamy Feta. This dish bursts with the essence of freshly harvested tomatoes and aromatic basil straight from the garden. It's a perfect balance of bright, juicy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, making it ideal for those warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying. Whether served as a delightful side dish or a full main course, this pasta is sure to impress your family and friends with its simplicity and rich flavors.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tomatoes
4-5 (medium, very ripe, chopped)
Fresh Basil
1/2 cup (thinly sliced)
Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Garlic
1-2 cloves (minced)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Ground Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Radiatore Pasta
8 ounces (or penne (cooked al dente))
Feta Cheese
1 (4 ounce) package (crumbled)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, thinly sliced basil, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until well combined and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the radiatore pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
3
In the same pot, gently toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture. Add a bit of the reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry, and mix until the pasta is well coated.
4
Lastly, fold in the crumbled feta cheese, allowing it to combine slightly with the pasta and create a creamy texture.
5
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Summer Tomato Basil Pasta with Creamy Feta?
It is a vibrant, light pasta dish featuring fresh summer tomatoes, aromatic basil, and tangy crumbled feta cheese.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. While radiatore is suggested, penne, fusilli, or farfalle are excellent alternatives that hold the sauce well.
How do I make the feta creamy?
By folding the feta into the warm pasta, the cheese softens and combines with the tomato juices and pasta water to create a creamy texture.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
Very ripe medium tomatoes are best. Varieties like Roma, vine-ripened, or even heirlooms work wonderfully for maximum flavor.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, you can easily add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas for a protein boost.
Is this pasta served hot or cold?
It is best served immediately while warm, but it also tastes delicious at room temperature or as a cold pasta salad.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, including the time to boil the water and let the tomatoes marinate.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is highly recommended for this summer dish, but if you must use dried, use about 1-2 teaspoons and let it sit longer in the oil.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is not recommended because the fresh tomatoes and feta cheese will lose their ideal texture when thawed.
How do I prevent the pasta from being dry?
The key is to reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining and add it back to the mixture until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I use bottled minced garlic?
Yes, bottled garlic works in a pinch, though fresh cloves provide a sharper and more aromatic flavor profile.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it features fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and can be made even healthier by using whole-grain pasta.
What can I serve with this pasta?
A crisp green salad or a side of crusty garlic bread complements the light and tangy flavors of the dish perfectly.
Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?
Yes, goat cheese is a great substitute that will offer a similar creamy and tangy effect.
What is the best way to slice the basil?
Stack the leaves, roll them into a tight cylinder, and slice across the roll to create thin ribbons, a technique known as chiffonade.
What is radiatore pasta?
Radiatore is a small, ruffled pasta shape designed to look like old-fashioned radiators, which helps it trap sauce and small ingredients.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the radiatore pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.
Can I make this vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the feta cheese with a plant-based feta alternative or seasoned tofu crumbles.
Should I peel the tomatoes first?
No, peeling is not necessary. The skins add texture and contain valuable nutrients.
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead?
Yes, cherry or grape tomatoes work well. Just halve or quarter them before mixing.
What if I don't have olive oil?
You can use another neutral oil like avocado oil, though olive oil provides the best traditional flavor for this recipe.
How much salt should I put in the pasta water?
Add about 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water to ensure the pasta is seasoned from the inside out.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, roasted zucchini, baby spinach, or sautéed bell peppers would be wonderful additions.
Is this a good recipe for a potluck?
Yes, it travels well and can be served at room temperature, making it a hit for summer gatherings.
Can I prepare the tomato mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato and herb mixture up to 2 hours in advance to let the flavors develop even more.
How many people does 8 ounces of pasta serve?
This recipe typically serves 2 as a main course or 4 as a side dish.
Can I add balsamic glaze to this?
A drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving adds a beautiful sweetness and acidity that pairs perfectly with the basil and feta.
Why let the tomato mixture sit for 10-15 minutes?
Allowing the mixture to rest helps the salt draw moisture out of the tomatoes, creating a natural sauce and melding the garlic and basil flavors.