Baked Ziti w Summer Veggies

Ingredients

• 4 oz. whole wheat pasta (dry penne pasta)
• 2 tsp. olive oil
• 1 red onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 cups summer squash (chopped )
• 1 cup zucchini (chopped )
• 1/4 cup basil (finely chopped )
• 1/2 tsp. sea salt (or Himalayan salt)
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 1 red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3/4 cup Mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
• Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook ziti according to package directions; drain. Set aside.

2. 2

   Preheat oven to 375º F.

3. 3

   Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

4. 4

   Add onion; cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 6 minutes, or until onion is translucent.

5. 5

   Add garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 minute.

6. 6

   Add tomatoes, summer squash, and zucchini; cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes.

7. 7

   Combine onion mixture, pasta, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if desired), ½ cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese in a large bowl; mix well. Place in a 2½ to 3-quart casserole that is lightly coated with spray.

8. 8

   Top evenly with remaining ¼ cup mozzarella cheese. Bake, covered with aluminum foil, for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly.