Vegetarian Baked Ziti Recipe

Introduction:

There’s something incredibly comforting and heartwarming about a baked pasta dish fresh from the oven. Our Vegetarian Baked Ziti is a celebration of vibrant, fresh vegetables and the rich, savory flavors of Italian cuisine. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any seasonal occasion where you want to bring everyone together over a homely meal. The mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, combined with tender ziti noodles and topped with golden, melted cheese, makes this dish not only visually stunning but also delightfully irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini, bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, vegetable marinara sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the ziti mixture to the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips:

• For added protein, consider incorporating cooked lentils or chickpeas into the dish.
• Feel free to swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand—broccoli, spinach, and eggplant work beautifully too.

Storage Instructions:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• If you can’t find ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can be a good substitute.
• Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.

Pairings:

This Vegetarian Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. For a refreshing drink, serve it with a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon or your favorite white wine.

Conclusion:

I hope this Vegetarian Baked Ziti brings warmth and joy to your dinner table, just as it does to mine. Share your delightful creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. We’d love to see how you make this recipe your own! Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website www.zynahz.com, subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes, and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!