1 (12 ounce) package penne pasta

⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil

16 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 cups crumbled feta cheese

3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the halved tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the pasta, reserving a little of the pasta water. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the tomatoes. Reduce the heat to low and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped basil. Continue to toss everything together, letting the feta melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Garlic & Chili: Add sliced garlic and/or red chili flakes for extra flavor and a bit of spice.

Different Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or Parmesan if you prefer a different cheese.

Fresh Herbs: You can also use mint or parsley in place of basil for a different fresh flavor.

Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Vegetables: For added nutrition, toss in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.