Lightened Up Baked Feta Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

• 8 oz whole wheat or high-fiber pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 block (about 8 oz) reduced-fat feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• Optional: 1 cup baby spinach or arugula

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Pasta:
   • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Assemble the Ingredients:
   • In a large baking dish, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, block of feta cheese placed in the center, and cooked pasta.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
   • Add dried oregano and red pepper flakes, and stir to combine.
5. Bake:
   • Pour the seasoned olive oil over the tomatoes, feta, and pasta in the baking dish. Toss everything gently to coat.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and burst, and the feta is golden and melty.
6. Season and Garnish:
   • Remove the dish from the oven. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Add fresh basil leaves and, if desired, toss in baby spinach or arugula for a burst of green.
7. Serve:
   • Gently stir everything together, making sure the melted feta coats the pasta evenly.
   • Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.