Baked Feta Chickpeas Tomatoes (Ready-to-Print Version)

Creamy baked feta combines with roasted tomatoes and chickpeas for a hearty meal over pasta or rice.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 7 oz block feta cheese

→ Canned Goods

02 - 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

→ Produce

03 - 14 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
06 - Lemon wedges (optional)

→ Pantry

07 - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
08 - 1 tsp dried oregano
09 - 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
10 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Grains

11 - 10.5 oz dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) or 9 oz uncooked rice

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Set oven to 400°F and allow it to preheat completely.
02 - Combine halved cherry tomatoes, drained chickpeas, minced garlic, and olive oil in a large baking dish. Season with dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper; toss thoroughly to coat.
03 - Place feta block in the center of the tomato and chickpea mixture. Drizzle additional olive oil over the cheese.
04 - Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta softens with a golden top.
05 - While baking, prepare pasta or rice according to package instructions; drain and keep warm.
06 - Remove baking dish from oven and gently mash feta into the baked tomatoes and chickpeas, stirring to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
07 - Spoon feta and chickpea sauce over pasta or rice. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

# Handy Tips:

01 - For best texture, use a sturdy baking dish to evenly roast the ingredients.