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As summer approaches, the need for vibrant, comforting meals that embrace the season's bounty becomes more apparent. The Bright & Cheesy Summer Pasta Bake is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something hearty yet refreshing. This pasta bake combines the ease of preparation with a medley of bright colors and flavors, making it an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings, family dinners, or even meal prep for busy weekdays.

Easy Fresh Summer Pasta Bake

Discover the Bright & Cheesy Summer Pasta Bake, the perfect dish for warm days! This vibrant recipe features seasonal vegetables like zucchini and cherry tomatoes, blended with creamy cheeses for a delightful flavor. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this pasta bake is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit various dietary preferences. Enjoy the tastes of summer while creating a hearty yet refreshing meal that brings joy to the table.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) rotini or fusilli pasta

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for serving)

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Instructions
 

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

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until vegetables are tender. Add spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Add the chopped basil and stir until everything is evenly mixed.

          Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch (23x33cm) baking dish. Springle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

            Final Baking: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

              Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 6 servings