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In the world of comfort food, pasta holds a special place, and when you combine it with vibrant vegetables and creamy feta cheese, you create a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body. The Zucchini Feta Pasta Bake is a delightful recipe that showcases the best of both worlds—health and indulgence. This dish is perfect for families looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals or for those hosting gatherings where a crowd-pleasing dish is essential.

Zucchini Feta Pasta Bake

Discover the delicious and nutritious Zucchini Feta Pasta Bake, a perfect blend of comfort food and healthy ingredients. This versatile dish features fresh zucchini, creamy feta cheese, and vibrant cherry tomatoes, creating a flavor-packed experience that everyone will love. Ideal for families or gatherings, it can serve as a main course or side dish. Easy to prepare, it's a delightful way to incorporate more veggies into your meals while satisfying your cravings. Enjoy this wholesome recipe that’s bound to impress!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, diced

300g (10.5 oz) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

250g (9 oz) crumbled feta cheese

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup spinach, roughly chopped

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (for topping)

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.

      Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Add Zucchini and Spinach: Introduce the diced zucchinis to the skillet and sauté for approximately 5-6 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Next, add the roughly chopped spinach and cook until it just wilts. Season the mixture with dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.

          Combine Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the sautéed vegetable mix, halved cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss everything together to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish and pour the pasta and vegetable mixture into it. Spread the mixture out evenly, making sure that the feta is distributed throughout the layers.

              Add Mozzarella Topping: Evenly sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta bake, creating a cheesy crust.

                Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and turns a golden brown color.

                  Serve: Once it's baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta bake directly from the dish, and for an extra touch, drizzle with a little olive oil or balsamic glaze before garnishing with basil leaves.