Baked Mediterranean Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Mediterranean Pasta offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why you’ll love it:

1. Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for beginners.

2. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, pasta, and healthy fats from olive oil.

3. Customizable: You can add your favorite vegetables or proteins.

4. Great for Leftovers: This dish stores well and tastes just as good the next day.

5. Impressive Presentation: The bubbling cheese and colorful ingredients make it visually appealing.

6. Family-Friendly: The mild flavors are perfect for all ages.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 cups marinara sauce

• 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.

4. Stir in the red bell pepper and zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.

5. Add the cherry tomatoes and chickpeas, followed by oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

6. Mix in the cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Stir to combine.

7. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

8. Sprinkle mozzarella and feta cheese evenly over the top.

9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

10. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Preparation Time: 20-25 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Mediterranean Veggie Delight: Add artichoke hearts, olives, or spinach for a Mediterranean twist.

• Cheesy Spinach Bake: Stir in fresh spinach for extra nutrition.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

• One-Pot Version: Simplify by cooking everything in one pot, combining pasta and sauce before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

• Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as usual, adding extra time if needed.

• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

Can I prepare Baked Mediterranean Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Can I add more vegetables?

Feel free to add mushrooms, eggplant, or broccoli to suit your taste.

Can I substitute marinara sauce?

You can substitute with other sauces like alfredo, pesto, or a homemade tomato sauce.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the recipe is vegetarian as it uses only plant-based ingredients (apart from the cheese).

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, you can use plant-based cheeses and legumes like lentils for protein.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to taste.

What kind of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella and feta?

You can substitute with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or goat cheese.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to swap penne with any pasta shape you prefer.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover tightly and store for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Baked Mediterranean Pasta is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will never disappoint. Try it today and enjoy the delightful Mediterranean flavors in every bite!