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Baked Mediterranean Pasta

Baked Mediterranean Pasta: Comfort Food with Bold Flavors

Baked Mediterranean Pasta is a delightful dish that combines juicy cherry tomatoes, savory olives, and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Rigatoni or Penne Pasta fusilli or farfalle can be substituted
For the Sauce
  • 2 cup Cherry Tomatoes grape tomatoes can be used as a substitute
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives green olives can be substituted
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil dried basil can be used instead
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes fresh tomatoes are an option but affect texture
  • 1/2 cup Pesto store-bought or homemade
For the Cheesy Topping
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese non-dairy cheese can be used for a dairy-free option
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese look for vegetarian Parmesan to keep it meat-free
For Cooking & Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil avocado oil can be used instead
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano thyme can substitute
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Directions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the pasta, and cook for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, then add cherry tomatoes and salt. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with sautéed garlic and tomatoes, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, pesto, and seasonings. Mix gently.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly, and layer mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy top.
  7. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This pasta dish is perfect for make-ahead meals and can easily be customized with additional vegetables or protein.

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