Easy Fresh Summer Recipes Pasta Bake

Brighten up your dinner table with the Sunny Garden Pasta Bake, a deliciously wholesome dish that celebrates fresh vegetables and creamy cheeses! This vibrant pasta bake features penne pasta enveloped in a medley of sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and spinach, all enhanced with savory herbs. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight meals, this recipe not only nourishes your body but also delights your taste buds. Discover how to create this comforting dish and enjoy a flavorful experience that redefines pasta bakes.

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Ingredients

2 cups penne pasta

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Add the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes, and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.

Add Spinach and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped spinach, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the ricotta cheese until well mixed.

Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your sunny garden pasta bake!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings