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Vegetable Baked Ziti
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 small yellow squash, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and the cooked vegetables. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Vegetable Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in the southern regions of Italy. This hearty and comforting casserole is a delicious combination of ziti pasta, marinara sauce, assorted vegetables, and a generous amount of melted cheese. The dish gained popularity in the United States during the 20th century and has since become a staple in Italian restaurants and home kitchens across the country. Renowned chefs like Lidia Bastianich and Mario Batali have popularized their own versions of Vegetable Baked Ziti, incorporating seasonal vegetables and artisanal cheeses. In recent years, the dish has evolved to accommodate various dietary preferences, with vegan and gluten-free adaptations becoming increasingly common. For the best Vegetable Baked Ziti, sourcing high-quality marinara sauce and a variety of fresh vegetables is crucial. Some popular additions include zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Additionally, using a combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheese creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile. While the traditional recipe calls for baking the ziti in a casserole dish, some chefs opt for alternative methods such as preparing individual portions in ramekins or incorporating the dish into stuffed peppers for a unique twist. Today, the best Vegetable Baked Ziti can be found in authentic Italian eateries and family-owned restaurants that prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, Vegetable Baked Ziti continues to be a beloved comfort food that brings people together around the dinner table.
60 min
6
380 calories
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