Tomato Feta Pasta

14 August, 2013 / by Hank Watson

My grandfather

This is a feta pasta recipe that I’ve made for so many years, always with enthusiastic results. I’ve refined it many times, trying to keep it as fresh and lively as possible. From the “You may not know this” file: I’m part Greek. My grandfather was born on the beautiful island of Crete. And, I love feta cheese. Okay, I just love cheese. This dish is a very simple way to bring have some great Greek flavors. This recipe will make your senses and taste buds sing. The smell of it cooking it such a treat, your family and guests will be enthusiastic participants. Be prepared to say “Oopah!!!!”  Throwing your dishes onto the floor or into the fireplace is optional.

As with most things, I like to use as many fresh ingredients as possible when making this; it’s just so easy to cut up fresh tomatoes and chop fresh herbs! Watch for pasta making video to come. Fresh pasta makes this even more incredible! If your short on time, you can substitute canned diced tomatoes with herbs in it, I won’t guarantee the same fresh flavor.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh ground beef

1/4 tsp granulated garlic

2 Tbs finely chopped shallots
Salt & Pepper
18 oz fresh tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 clove fresh garlic, minced
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
3 Tbs fresh chopped basil
1 8 oz can tomato sauce
3 Tbs (heaping) of good quality tomato paste (I like the tube kind)
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp fresh ground nutmeg
Salt & Pepper
1/4 cup white wine
1 lb cooked pasta
1 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions

Place ground beef in large skillet. Sprinkle with granulated garlic and salt & pepper. Begin to brown.  When close to being browned, add the chopped shallots. Drain fat from beef. While the beef is browning. combine chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, tomato sauce, tomato paste, cinnamon and nutmeg in a medium bowl. Add to skillet with browned beef. Add salt & pepper and wine.Bring to a boil. Reduce and simmer for 8 minutes. Remove cover and simmer another 5 to 8 minutes, or until desired consistency. Serve over cooked pasta and cover top with feta cheese.Oopah!

View Recipe