Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta

Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta Recipe - Swiss Delight | Best Food Recipes

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of feta cheese with the savory flavors of black olives and herbs. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic macaroni and cheese dish. The addition of feta cheese and black olives gives it a unique Mediterranean flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

2 cups macaroni
2 eggs
0.75 cup milk
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
0.5 cup sliced black olives
1.5 tbsp butter
0.5 bunch dill
0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
0.5 tsp crushed pepper
0.5 tsp thyme
1 cup grated swiss cheese

How to prepare

Cook the macaroni for 20 minutes and rinse it well.
In a bowl, mix the eggs and milk, then add feta, olives, oil, parsley, thyme, and pepper.
Add the cooked macaroni to this mixture and transfer it to a casserole dish. Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
Bake the macaroni in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) for 30 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
Add roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the cooked macaroni well to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.

- Mixing the eggs and milk together before adding the other ingredients helps to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Don't skimp on the herbs and spices - they add depth and complexity to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the macaroni in the oven helps to melt the cheese and create a crispy, golden crust on top.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta.

- Use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the macaroni mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (feta cheese, milk, butter) and eggs.

Summary

Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With its creamy feta cheese, savory black olives, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta. It was a crisp autumn day, and I had just returned home from a trip to Greece. My dear friend Katerina had invited me to her home for a traditional Greek feast, and one of the dishes she served was this delightful macaroni and feta bake.

As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. The combination of creamy feta, tangy tomatoes, and savory herbs was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. Katerina was kind enough to share her recipe with me, and I have been making it ever since.

The first step in making this dish is to prepare the macaroni. I remember Katerina showing me how to cook the pasta until it was al dente, then draining it and setting it aside. Next, she taught me how to make the tomato sauce. She sautéed onions and garlic in olive oil until they were soft and fragrant, then added diced tomatoes, oregano, and a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity.

While the sauce simmered on the stove, Katerina showed me how to prepare the feta cheese. She crumbled it into a bowl and mixed it with a little bit of milk to make it creamy and spreadable. Once the sauce was ready, she added the cooked macaroni to the pan and stirred it all together until it was well coated.

The final step was to assemble the dish in a baking dish. Katerina spooned half of the macaroni mixture into the bottom of the dish, then topped it with a generous layer of crumbled feta. She repeated this process with the remaining macaroni and feta, then sprinkled a little extra oregano on top for good measure.

After baking the dish in the oven until the cheese was golden and bubbly, Katerina served it to me with a side of Greek salad and crusty bread. I will never forget that first taste of Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta. It was a meal that warmed my soul and filled my belly with joy.

Since that day, I have made this dish countless times for my family and friends. Each time I prepare it, I think of Katerina and the wonderful memories we shared in her kitchen. I am grateful for her generosity in sharing this recipe with me, and I will always cherish the time we spent cooking together.

Now, as I pass this recipe down to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making Fancy Baked Macaroni and Feta as much as I have. May it bring you comfort and joy, just as it has for me all these years. And remember, the secret ingredient is always love. Happy cooking!