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- Gluten-Free Pasta: If you're avoiding gluten, consider using gluten-free penne pasta made from rice or lentils.

Mediterranean Pasta Bake

Experience the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean with our Mediterranean Pasta Bake. This delicious dish combines hearty penne, fresh vegetables, olives, and rich cheeses, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Discover how simple ingredients can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that embodies the Mediterranean diet’s principles of balance and health. Join us on a culinary adventure and transform your kitchen into a Mediterranean oasis.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

1 cup spinach, chopped

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 small red onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

3 tbsp olive oil

Salt & pepper, to taste

Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the red onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, spinach, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

          Assemble the Bake: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half of the crumbled feta cheese over the pasta. Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top, and finish with the remaining feta and the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

              Garnish & Serve: Once the pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean Pasta Bake!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings