Easy Fresh Summer Recipes Pasta Bake

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, our culinary cravings often shift towards dishes that evoke the warmth and vibrancy of summer. One such dish that encapsulates the spirit of the season is the Summer Bliss Pasta Bake. This delightful recipe harmonizes fresh ingredients to create a vibrant, flavorful meal that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body. With its medley of seasonal vegetables, aromatic herbs, and rich, gooey cheese, the Summer Bliss Pasta Bake is an ideal choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a convenient meal prep option for busy weekdays.

Celebrate summer with the delicious Summer Bliss Pasta Bake, a vibrant and wholesome dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe features a colorful medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, combined with gooey cheese for ultimate comfort. Enjoy the balance of nutrition and flavor, making it a guilt-free indulgence that will delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Discover the joy of cooking and sharing this delightful dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced

1 small red onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup grated parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

¼ cup olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

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 pasta and cook 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 the chopped red onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the zucchini, bell peppers, and garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes until softened.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, halved cherry tomatoes, oregano, salt, black pepper, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and mix well. Stir in the fresh basil, reserving some for garnish.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. If desired, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with the reserved fresh basil before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8