Mediterranean Diet Baked Ziti

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Mediterranean Diet Baked Ziti—a wholesome twist on a classic comfort dish that’s packed with fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients. Featuring whole grain ziti, tender zucchini, sweet cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and a medley of Mediterranean seasonings, this recipe is a perfect balance of heartiness and healthfulness. Layers of creamy feta and gooey mozzarella create a golden, irresistible cheese crust, while a hearty tomato sauce ties it all together. Quick to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights, this baked ziti is a crowd-pleasing, versatile meal that embodies the best of the Mediterranean diet. Perfect for a family dinner or as a make-ahead meal, it’s an easy way to bring healthy indulgence to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Whole grain ziti pasta
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 medium Red onion, diced
• 1 medium Red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium Zucchini, sliced
• 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 0.5 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 cups Baby spinach leaves
• 1 cup Crumbled feta cheese
• 1.5 teaspoons Dried oregano
• 1.5 teaspoons Dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2.5 cups Tomato sauce

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole grain ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Add the diced red bell pepper and sliced zucchini to the skillet, cooking until the vegetables are slightly tender, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and baby spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Pour in the tomato sauce, then add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 7

Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top evenly.

Step 8

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the top, and then distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden brown crust.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean Diet Baked Ziti!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2179.6 grams (2179.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2988

Total Fat 140.60g	180%
Saturated Fat 45.10g	226%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g
Cholesterol 187mg	62%
Sodium 7516mg	327%
Total Carbohydrate 330.60g	120%
Dietary Fiber 57.90g	207%
Total Sugars 47.80g
Protein 108.80g	218%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1681mg	129%
Iron 19mg	106%
Potassium 2974mg	63%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.9%

Protein: 14.4%

Carbs: 43.7%