Baked Feta & Tomato Pasta: A Quick Family Meal for Moms in Bali
Enjoy a delicious and effortless family dinner with this Baked Feta & Tomato Pasta recipe. Infused with a tropical twist for Bali’s vibrant flavors, this dish is perfect for busy moms and kids.
Made with simple ingredients and ready in no time, it’s the ideal meal to share while enjoying Bali’s tropical ambiance.
Table of Contents
What Is Baked Feta & Tomato Pasta?
Baked Feta & Tomato Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish made by roasting cherry tomatoes and feta cheese together until caramelized, then tossing them with pasta. Its ease of preparation and irresistible taste make it a favorite for families.
Balinese Inspiration for Baked Feta Pasta
Incorporate Balinese flavors with tropical ingredients like coconut oil, fresh herbs, and lime zest. Serve the dish with a side of banana leaf-wrapped crackers for a local touch, or drizzle a hint of sambal for a spicy kick.
Ingredients for Kids (Serves 4)
For the Pasta:
200g cherry tomatoes
1 block feta cheese (200g)
250g penne or fusilli pasta
3 tablespoons coconut oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
Fresh basil leaves
1 teaspoon lime zest
Optional: Chili flakes or sambal
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Prepare the Ingredients:
Rinse 200g cherry tomatoes under cool water, then pat them dry with a clean towel. Arrange them evenly in a medium-sized baking dish, ensuring they are spread out to cook evenly.
Place a 200g block of feta cheese at the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the tomatoes.
Finely mince 2 cloves of garlic and sprinkle them over the tomatoes and feta cheese for an aromatic base.
Season Generously:
Drizzle the entire dish with 3 tablespoons of coconut oil, ensuring the oil is evenly distributed over the cheese and tomatoes.
Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, and a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning. These spices infuse the dish with tropical undertones perfect for a Bali-inspired meal.
Bake the Feta and Tomatoes:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dish on the middle rack and bake for 25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and slightly caramelized, and the feta is golden and creamy.
Midway through baking, gently stir the tomatoes to ensure even roasting.
Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add 250g penne or fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
Combine the Sauce and Pasta:
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the baked feta and tomatoes together, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
Gradually fold in the cooked pasta, mixing thoroughly to coat every piece. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to achieve your desired consistency.
Garnish and Serve:
Finish with freshly torn basil leaves, 1 teaspoon of lime zest, and an optional drizzle of sambal or sprinkle of chili flakes for a Balinese-inspired kick. Serve immediately in a banana-leaf-lined dish for a tropical flair.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Snowball Cookies
Banana Leaf Plating: Line each serving bowl with fresh banana leaves for an eco-friendly and vibrant presentation. Trim the leaves into decorative shapes for added elegance.
Coconut Shell Bowls: For an authentic Balinese touch, serve individual portions of the pasta in halved coconut shells. These can also double as serving bowls for side garnishes.
Edible Floral Garnishes: Adorn the dish with edible Balinese flowers like hibiscus or frangipani for a festive and colorful look. These flowers are easily available in Bali markets.
Balinese Side Pairings: Pair the pasta with traditional Balinese accompaniments like kerupuk (crispy crackers) or sambal matah (raw shallot and chili relish) to add textural and flavor contrast.
Rustic Bamboo Trays: Serve the pasta on rustic bamboo trays, often used in traditional Balinese dining, to create an immersive experience for guests.
Tropical Drink Pairing: Complement the meal with a fresh coconut drink or lime-infused iced tea to complete the tropical dining experience.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 4 (Kid-sized portions)
Calories Per Serving: 250 kcal
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories
250kcal
Fat
12g (7g saturated fat)
Cholesterol
30mg
Sodium
400mg
Carbohydrates
25g (5g sugars, 3g fiber)
Protein
9g
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 50,000 – 70,000.
FAQs About Baked Feta Pasta in Bali
Q1: Can I use Balinese sambal for added flavor?
A: Definitely! Sambal matah or sambal bajak adds a spicy, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy feta and roasted tomatoes.
Q2: Are there local substitutes for feta cheese in Bali?
A: Yes, you can use locally made soft goat cheese or cashew cheese available at specialty stores like Bali Buda. These options provide a similar creamy texture.
Q3: How can I adapt this recipe for a Balinese celebration?
A: Serve the pasta on a large banana-leaf-lined platter, garnished with edible flowers and paired with grilled satay skewers or tempeh for a festive touch.
Q4: Can I make this dish vegan while maintaining Balinese flavors?
A: Substitute feta with coconut cream or vegan cheese, and incorporate marinated tofu cubes or tempeh for a protein-rich, plant-based option.