Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal, you’re going to love this Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee recipe. It’s packed with vibrant vegetables, creating a delicious medley that really warms the soul.
The combination of creamy ricotta and melted cheddar makes each bite irresistible. I appreciate how simple it’s to prepare, yet it feels indulgent enough for special occasions.
Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Every time I make it, I’m reminded why this dish has become a staple in my kitchen.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal that feels both cozy and special, this Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee is a fantastic choice. Not only is it loaded with all kinds of colorful veggies that make your plate pop, but it also combines creamy ricotta and melty cheddar for a comforting experience that’s hard to resist. I mean, who doesn’t love gooey cheese, right?
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies—your family won’t even know they’re eating healthy. So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to make this yummy dish.
Here’s a handy list of ingredients you’ll need to gather:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 onions, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled & sliced
- 1 small bay leaf
- 1 small eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 3 cups)
- 1 small zucchini, halved lengthwise & cut into thin slices
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into slivers
- 4 plum tomatoes, coarsely chopped (about 1-1/4 cups)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 cup shredded fresh basil leaf (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (any kind)
Now, as you gather your ingredients, consider a few things. First, feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. If you’re not a fan of eggplant, maybe swap it out for some spinach or mushrooms.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Remember, cooking is all about making it your own!
And don’t worry too much about perfection; this dish is all about the love you put into it. So, let’s get ready to make this Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee shine!
How to Make Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee
To make this delightful Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee, start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F.
Now, grab a large skillet and pour in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Over medium-low heat, toss in 2 thinly sliced onions, 4 sliced garlic cloves, and a small bay leaf. Just let those ingredients mingle, stirring occasionally until the onions soften. It’s like a warm hug for your kitchen.
Once those onions are happily softened, it’s time to add the star of the show, the veggies. Toss in 1 small eggplant (cut into 1/2-inch pieces), and cook for about 8 minutes until it starts to soften up.
Then, bring in 1 small zucchini (halved and sliced), 1 red bell pepper (cut into slivers), and 4 coarsely chopped plum tomatoes (about 1-1/4 cups). Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and let everything cook together for another 5-7 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell incredible.
When the veggies are tender, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded fresh basil (if you’re using it) and a few grinds of black pepper to taste.
While those veggies are doing their thing, cook 1 lb of ziti pasta according to the package directions. Once al dente, drain the pasta and toss it in a large bowl with 1 (15-ounce) container of ricotta cheese, 2 beaten eggs, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 cup of fresh grated parmesan cheese, and another teaspoon of salt.
Now you’re ready to assemble. Spoon half of the ziti mixture into a lightly oiled 4-quart casserole dish, then layer on that beautiful ratatouille you just made, followed by the remaining ziti.
Top everything off with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and let it bake for another 10 minutes. Just think about how good this will taste. It’s going to be cheesy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Enjoy!
Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee Substitutions & Variations
While the Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee is already a delicious dish, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
For a gluten-free option, I often use gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking to boost the protein, adding some cooked lentils or chickpeas works wonders.
You can also swap out vegetables based on what’s in season; I love using spinach or kale. For a creamier texture, try adding mascarpone cheese alongside the ricotta.
Finally, if you want more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor beautifully! Enjoy experimenting with these variations!
Additional Tips & Notes
If you want to take your Vegetarian Ziti Gratinee to the next level, consider these helpful tips.
First, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. You can also mix in some sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
If you love a crispy top, broil the dish for a couple of minutes after baking. For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream to the ricotta mixture.
Finally, don’t forget to let it sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Enjoy your delicious creation!