Master the Viral Trend: Easy Vegan Baked Feta Pasta with the Perfect Dairy-Free Feta

2 週間前

Inspired by: @david-

The internet went wild for baked feta pasta, and for good reason: it’s incredibly simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. But what if you're vegan or dairy-free? The good news is, you absolutely don't have to miss out on this global sensation! This easy recipe brings the viral baked feta pasta to your plant-based kitchen, featuring a vegan feta that's praised for being salty and tangy, just like its dairy counterpart.

Many in the abillion community, like david-, rave about the versatility and authentic taste of quality vegan feta for this dish. As one user from Mallorca happily shared, "This cheese is amazing! I am so lucky because here in Mallorca it's easy to find, so next week I'll try to cook this recipe. It looks delicious 😍." While finding the ideal vegan feta can sometimes be a quest (especially in places like Germany, as another user noted), the delicious outcome is truly worth the search.

This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a quick and easy weeknight meal, a flavorful dairy-free pasta alternative, or simply wanting to try the viral trend with a plant-based twist. It addresses common questions like: "How do I make the viral baked feta pasta vegan?" and "What's the best vegan feta to use for baked pasta?" Get ready for a dish that’s so simple, yet so satisfying!

Ingredients

- 250g (about 1.5 cups) of your favorite pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 pint (about 300g) of cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes
- 100-150g (half a block) of high-quality vegan feta cheese (ensure it's designed to hold shape when baked if possible, or refer to tips below!)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1-2 teaspoons dried herbs (e.g., oregano, Italian seasoning, or a mix)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

- Oven-safe baking dish (approx. 9x13 inch)
- Large pot for boiling pasta

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
In the oven-safe baking dish, spread the cherry tomatoes evenly.
Place the block of vegan feta in the center of the dish, nestled among the tomatoes.
Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with dried herbs, salt, and black pepper.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and burst, releasing their juices.
While the tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Once the tomatoes are soft, remove the baking dish from the oven.
Add the cooked pasta to the dish. Use a fork to gently mash the roasted tomatoes and vegan feta, combining them into a creamy sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Toss everything together until well combined and the pasta is coated.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Hacks for the Perfect Vegan Baked Feta Pasta

Achieving that perfect texture and flavor with vegan feta can be a game-changer! Here are some insights from the abillion community:

Strategic Baking for Best Texture: One fantastic tip from an abillion user (who tried this recipe!) is to add the vegan feta later in the baking process. "I found that if I put it in the oven later on after the tomatoes have softened it’s way better so it doesn’t get super melted." They recommend baking the tomatoes for about 25 minutes first, then adding the vegan feta for another 10 minutes. This helps the feta become soft and "oily but not gummy," ensuring a delightful mouthfeel.
Embrace the Melt: While some vegan fetas are designed to hold their shape, others will melt more. Don't worry if yours gets "super melted" – this actually contributes to a wonderfully creamy, rich sauce that's still incredibly delicious. The key is the salty, tangy flavor!

Variations & Adaptations

Homemade Vegan Feta: Can't find good store-bought vegan feta? "There are many recipes online how to make your own feta, so maybe try that if you can’t find one in stores 🏬 ." This is a fantastic option if you're feeling adventurous! Typically, homemade vegan feta recipes use ingredients like tofu, cashews, or almonds with a blend of seasonings (nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and sometimes kala namak for a cheesy tang).
Gluten-Free Option: Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the baking dish along with the tomatoes.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little heat.

This easy-to-prepare dish delivers a wonderful balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors, making it a fantastic addition to your plant-based repertoire.

Ready to try this viral sensation yourself?

Whip up this Easy Vegan Baked Feta Pasta tonight and share your delicious creations on abillion! We'd love to see how your plant-based feta stands up to the bake.

Looking for more delicious and easy vegan pasta dishes or other quick meals?