Easy Baked Ziti Recipe No Meat Vegetarian Delight
Baked ziti recipe no meat: A hearty and satisfying vegetarian pasta bake featuring tender ziti noodles, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for cheese)
- Spatula or Large Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Ziti: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Step 2: Saut Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined. This mixture adds a creamy depth to the pasta.
- Step 5: Assemble the Baked Ziti: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the tomato sauce, ensuring that all the pasta is well coated.
- Step 6: Layer in Baking Dish: Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
- Step 7: Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and additional Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Step 8: Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Step 9: Rest and Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. For a richer flavor, use fresh herbs in the tomato sauce instead of dried. Feel free to substitute other cheeses, such as provolone or fontina, for a different flavor profile. To add more vegetables, saut chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach with the onion and garlic before adding the tomatoes.
Notes
Variations
The baked ziti recipe no meat offers numerous possibilities for adaptation.
- Ingredient Swaps: Substitute different cheeses to alter the flavor profile. Provolone adds a tangy depth, while fontina contributes a nutty richness. Consider using whole wheat ziti for added fiber or gluten-free pasta for dietary adjustments.
- Regional Twists: Embrace regional Italian influences by incorporating ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts. A Sicilian-inspired variation might include eggplant, while a Tuscan version could feature cannellini beans.
- Dietary Adjustments: To create a vegan baked ziti, replace ricotta with a plant-based alternative, such as cashew ricotta or tofu ricotta. Use vegan mozzarella shreds and ensure the tomato sauce is free from animal-derived ingredients. Lower-fat options include using part-skim ricotta and reducing the amount of mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
Baked ziti is ideally served warm, directly from the oven, allowing the cheeses to remain melted and the flavors to meld. It functions well as a main course for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Complementary side dishes include a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. Serving individual portions alongside a glass of Italian red wine can enhance the dining experience. Furthermore, this dish is well-suited for make-ahead meals; it can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, leftover baked ziti should be cooled completely before storing. Transfer the ziti to an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, baked ziti maintains quality for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. For longer storage, consider freezing. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen baked ziti can last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
- Answer: Yes, the baked ziti can be assembled a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
- Question 2: Can other vegetables be added to the recipe?
- Answer: Certainly, sautd mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Question 3: Can the recipe be halved for a smaller portion?
- Answer: Yes, simply halve all the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish.
- Question 4: What can be used instead of ricotta cheese?
- Answer: Cottage cheese or a creamy blend of tofu can be used as alternatives to ricotta.