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As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, the desire for light yet satisfying meals becomes prominent. Enter the Sunny Summer Veggie Pasta Bake—a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of summer while delivering comfort and nourishment in every bite. This recipe is not merely a collection of ingredients; it’s a celebration of the season, showcasing the colorful bounty of fresh vegetables that thrive in warmer weather.

Easy Fresh Summer Recipes Pasta Bake

Discover the perfect dish for those warm summer days with the Sunny Summer Veggie Pasta Bake. This vibrant recipe celebrates seasonal vegetables while providing comfort and nourishment in every bite. With its versatility, you can customize it to suit your preferences or what's fresh at your local market. Layered with pasta, colorful veggies, and gooey cheese, this delightful bake is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that brings everyone together, showcasing the flavors of summer in your kitchen.
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Ingredients
  

10 oz (280 g) rotini or penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 medium bell pepper (any color), diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.

        Add Remaining Vegetables: Stir in the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender. Add the chopped spinach, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

          Combine Pasta and Marinara: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

            Layer the Bake: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, pour half of the pasta mixture, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the top. Add the rest of the pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve warm.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings