Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Tometta Valle Elvo cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, tomato sauce, Tometta Valle Elvo cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 390
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 21g
- Sodium: 500mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Tometta Valle Elvo cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the tomato sauce for a meaty version.
- Use penne pasta instead of ziti pasta.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the tomato sauce for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the baked ziti in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the baked ziti is too dry, add a little bit of tomato sauce or water to the mixture before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pasta and tomato sauce to the appropriate temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in southern Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- The Tometta Valle Elvo cheese adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite side dishes.
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Region: Italian