Baked Feta Pasta

THE PERFECT BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE

1. Preheat oven to 400°. In a large ovenproof skillet or medium baking dish, combine tomatoes,
   shallot, garlic, and all but 1 tablespoon oil.
2. Season with salt and red pepper flakes and toss to combine. 
3. Place feta into center of tomato mixture and drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon oil.
4. Scatter thyme sprigs over tomatoes. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until tomatoes are bursting
   and feta is golden on top. 
5. Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente according to package directions.
6. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
7. To skillet with tomatoes and feta, add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and lemon zest (if using) and stir until combined. Garnish with basil.