Baked Ziti with Spinach

Baked Ziti with Spinach is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines pasta, cheese, and fresh spinach for a deliciously comforting meal. This healthier twist on a classic American favorite is perfect for any pasta lover looking to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

• Ziti pasta - 200 grams
• Fresh spinach - 150 grams, chopped
• Ricotta cheese - 100 grams
• Mozzarella cheese - 100 grams, shredded
• Parmesan cheese - 30 grams, grated
• Marinara sauce - 250 ml
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sautéed spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the marinara sauce. Mix until well combined.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbs: 55 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 50 mg
• Total Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and minerals from spinach, promoting overall health.
• Provides a good source of protein and calcium from cheese, supporting muscle and bone health.

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