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Mediterranean Vegetable Pasta Bake

A comforting and flavor-packed Mediterranean Vegetable Pasta Bake filled with colorful veggies and creamy cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
  • 12 oz penne pasta Use your favorite pasta type.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
Vegetable Ingredients
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
Cheese Ingredients
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese For topping.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For added flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Stir in the chopped spinach and remove from heat.
Mixing and Baking
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  2. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 93-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  4. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Vegetable substitutions like broccoli or carrots can be used. Mix different cheeses for extra flavor. Add red pepper flakes for heat.