Spinach Ziti

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The ziti pasta provides a sturdy base, while the spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy taste. The creamy sauce, enriched with cream cheese and a hint of nutmeg, ties everything together beautifully. It’s a comforting and nutritious dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style stewed tomatoes
  • ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 4 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • 2 ounces cream cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot filled with salted water to a boil. Add ziti and cook until tender but still firm, about 12 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, in a medium-sized non-reactive pan, combine tomatoes and hot pepper flakes. Warm over medium-low heat, breaking up tomatoes if necessary.
  3. Drain pasta and return to the hot pan. Add spinach, cream cheese, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring, over low heat until spinach wilts, 1-2 minutes. Pour tomato sauce over spinach ziti. Stir and toss gently to mix.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

  • Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef for a heartier meal.
  • Cheese Options: Substitute cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a different creamy texture.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
  • Vegetable Additions: Include other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or warm the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat ziti instead of regular ziti?

Yes, whole wheat ziti can be used as a healthier alternative, adding more fiber to the dish.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian.

3. Can I freeze Spinach Ziti?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

4. How can I make the sauce spicier?

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture.

5. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Ensure it’s thoroughly drained and squeezed to remove excess moisture before adding it to the dish.

6. What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Ricotta cheese or mascarpone can be used as substitutes for cream cheese, offering a different flavor profile.

7. Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, adding cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef can enhance the flavor and make it more filling.

8. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the ziti al dente, as directed, and avoid overcooking. Also, ensure the sauce isn’t too watery before mixing with the pasta.

9. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the baking point, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

10. What can I serve with Spinach Ziti?

A simple green salad and garlic bread pair wonderfully with this dish.

Conclusion

Spinach Ziti is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.

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Spinach Ziti

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Spinach Ziti is a comforting pasta dish combining hearty ziti, fresh spinach, and a creamy tomato sauce with a touch of nutmeg. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian meal or a dish to impress at dinner parties, this spinach ziti recipe is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style stewed tomatoes
  • ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 4 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • 2 ounces cream cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

  • Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti and cook until al dente, about 12 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
  • Prepare Sauce: In a medium-sized pan, heat tomatoes and red pepper flakes over medium-low heat, breaking up tomatoes if necessary.
  • Combine Ingredients: Add spinach, cream cheese, and nutmeg to the drained pasta. Cook over low heat, stirring, until spinach wilts (1-2 minutes).
  • Finish & Serve: Pour the tomato sauce over the pasta mixture, gently stirring to combine. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Add Protein: Try cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef for a heartier dish.
  • Cheese Substitutes: Swap cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture.
  • Make it Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce.
  • Vegetable Additions: Enhance flavor with mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

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