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–+ servings
Ziti with Peppers and Marinated Mozzarella – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Ziti with Peppers and Marinated Mozzarella

A rustic and ridiculously flavorful pasta dish featuring a vibrant tumble of sweet bell peppers and onions, simmered in a rich tomato sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked ziti. Cubes of fresh mozzarella, marinated in a fragrant blend of herbs and garlic, melt into creamy pocket
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 serving
Calories: 510

Ingredients
  

  • 450 g (15.9 oz) (1 pound) fresh mozzarella cheese or smoked fresh mozzarella, cut into 1⁄2-inch cubes
  • 45 ml (1.5 fl oz) / 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 120 ml / 1⁄2 cup mixed chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, oregano, mint
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • 5 ml (0.2 fl oz) / 1 teaspoon red or white wine vinegar
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 15 g (0.53 oz) / 1 tablespoon chopped garlic, about 3 cloves
  • 300 g (10.6 oz) / 2 cups onions, sliced
  • 450 g (15.9 oz) / 3 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 475 ml / 2 cups store-bought or homemade tomato sauce
  • 225 g (7.9 oz) / 1⁄2 pound ziti, cooked al dente
  • 14 g (0.49 oz) / 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 25 g (0.88 oz) / 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • For a deeper, savory flavor, opt for smoked fresh mozzarella instead of regular.
  • Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like sliced mushrooms or a handful of fresh spinach along with the peppers and onions.
  • For an even creamier finish, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese along with the butter.

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Mozzarella: In a medium bowl, gently combine the mozzarella cubes, 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of olive oil, mixed fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, and vinegar.
  2. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
  3. Set aside to marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the chopped garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Simmer the Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the vegetables.
  8. Stir to combine, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently while you finish the dish.
  9. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  10. Combine and Finish: Transfer the hot, cooked ziti directly to the skillet with the sauce.
  11. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  12. Add the entire bowl of marinated mozzarella (including any liquid), the butter, and the grated Parmesan cheese.
  13. Toss gently but thoroughly until the butter is melted and the cheese is just beginning to get gooey and stringy.
  14. Serve immediately.
  15. Don't discard your pasta water! A splash can be added to the sauce if it seems too thick, helping it cling beautifully to the ziti.

Nutrition

Calories: 510kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 23gFat: 24g

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