Shelly's Recipe

ITALIAN ZITI BAKE

Category: Pasta - Baked

1 lb ziti, cooked al dente, drained
1 tsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 medium zucchini, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes in puree
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes and salt
1/8 tsp pepper
2 egg whites
1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or Italian cheese blend
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

While pasta is cooking, heat oil in a large saucepan and add vegetables and garlic. Cover and cook until vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Preheat oven to 325. Blend together egg whites and ricotta cheese until smooth.

In a 3 quart casserole dish, layer the pasta, cheese and tomato mixture, ending with a layer of tomato mixture. Sprinkle with cheeses and bake until golden brown on top and bubbly, about 45 minutes.