Moroccan Spiced Ziti Recipe

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Welcome to the wonderful world of Moroccan Spiced Ziti, where the heartwarming flavors of Moroccan cuisine meet the comforting charm of Italian pasta. This recipe, with its fragrant spices and hearty ingredients, is more than just a dish—it’s an invitation to gather your loved ones around the table, share stories, and create lasting memories. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, Moroccan Spiced Ziti brings together the best of both culinary worlds, promising a meal that is both exotic and familiarly comforting.

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups canned diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Add the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If using, stir in the raisins.
6. Gently fold the cooked ziti into the sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
7. Transfer the mixture into a large baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the top is slightly crispy and golden.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and crumbled feta cheese before serving, if desired.

Helpful Tips

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• To make this dish vegan, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, for extra nutrition.
• If you’re short on time, prepare the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate. Simply reheat and combine with freshly cooked ziti before baking.

Storage Instructions

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

Ingredient Substitutions

• Use any short pasta type if ziti is unavailable.
• Substitute chickpeas with cannellini beans or black beans for a different twist.

Pairings

This Moroccan Spiced Ziti pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a side of crusty bread. For drinks, consider serving with Moroccan mint tea or a glass of red wine to complement the rich spices.

Conclusion

We hope this Moroccan Spiced Ziti brings a touch of warmth and joy to your table. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag @Zynahz on Instagram. We’d love to see your photos and hear about your cooking adventures. Please leave your feedback on our website at www.zynahz.com.

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