Ingredients with Measurements:
-1 pound ziti pasta
-2 tablespoons olive oil
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-2 cups ricotta cheese
-1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
-1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
-1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
-1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
-1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
-Large pot
-Colander
-9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and spinach.
5. In the prepared baking dish, layer 1/2 of the cooked ziti, 1/2 of the ricotta mixture, and 1/2 of the marinara sauce. Repeat layers.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)
Serving Size: 8
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 437
Fat: 14.9 g
Carbohydrates: 52.7 g
Protein: 19.7 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
-For the ricotta cheese, you can substitute cottage cheese.
-For the Parmesan cheese, you can substitute Romano cheese.
-For the spinach, you can substitute kale or Swiss chard.
-For the marinara sauce, you can substitute your favorite tomato sauce.
Variations:
-You can add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the ricotta mixture.
-You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the ricotta mixture.
-You can top the dish with additional Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs.
Tips and Tricks:
-Be sure to squeeze the spinach dry before adding it to the ricotta mixture to avoid a watery dish.
-If you are using cooked Italian sausage or ground beef, be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the ricotta mixture.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in a 350 degree F (175 degree C) oven until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
-Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
-Serve with a side of garlic bread.
Garnishes:
-Freshly chopped parsley
-Freshly chopped basil
Pairings:
-A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
-A light red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Chianti
Suggested Side Dishes:
-Garlic bread
-Salad
-Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
-If the dish is too dry, you can add a bit more marinara sauce.
-If the dish is too watery, you can add a bit more cheese.
Food Safety Advice:
-Be sure to cook the Italian sausage or ground beef thoroughly before adding it to the ricotta mixture.
-Be sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Food History:
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that has been around for many years. It is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a creamy and cheesy flavor from the ricotta and Parmesan cheeses, a savory flavor from the Italian sausage or ground beef (if using), and a hint of sweetness from the marinara sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish is best served warm with a side of garlic bread and a salad.
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Region: Italian