Baked Ziti with Spinach
This Baked Ziti with Spinach is a no-fuss weeknight dinner loaded with delicious vegetables, herbs, and three kinds of cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 oz dry whole wheat ziti (or penne) pasta
- 2 tsp. olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1 (10-oz.) bag raw spinach
- 1½ cups whole peeled tomatoes (like San Marzano or Cento) crushed or pureed in blender or food processor.
- ¼ cup finely chopped basil leaves
- ½ tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
- ¼ tsp. ground black pepper
- 1 dash crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¾ cup part-skim Mozzarella cheese divided use
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups part-skim ricotta cheese
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Set aside.
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Preheat oven to 375º F.
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Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute.
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Add spinach, tomatoes, and basil. Season with salt and pepper; cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes.
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Combine spinach mixture, pasta, red pepper flakes (if desired), ½ cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese in a large bowl; mix well.
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Place in a 2½ to 3-quart casserole that is lightly coated with spray. Bake, covered with aluminum foil, for 35 minutes. Remove foil.
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Top evenly with remaining ¼ cup mozzarella cheese. Bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly.
Recipe Notes
High Fiber (F), High Protein (P), Vegetarian (V)
The Nutrition Facts box below provides estimated nutritional information for this recipe.