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Easy Vegetarian Baked Ziti with Fresh Veggies and Cheese


  • Author: clara
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting baked ziti recipe filled with fresh vegetables and gooey cheese, perfect for family gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 cup zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped vegetables, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, ricotta, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  5. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Layer with mozzarella and Parmesan. Add the rest of the pasta mixture and top with remaining cheeses and fresh herbs.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it rest before serving.
  7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot, paired with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.

Notes

Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables and different cheese options. This dish works great for meal prep!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: vegetarian, baked ziti, comfort food, pasta, family recipe