Delicious and Easy Ziti with Tomato Pesto Sauce

This ziti with tomato pesto sauce recipe is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a family meal. It combines the rich flavors of a tomato-based sauce with the bright and fresh flavors of pesto. Made with ziti pasta, the dish is hearty, comforting, and easy to make. It's a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a delicious Italian-inspired dish. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is convenient and satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 cup basil leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, parsley, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth pesto sauce forms.
4. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Cook the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
6. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Transfer half of the ziti and tomato sauce mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti and tomato sauce mixture, and top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
11. Serve the ziti with tomato pesto sauce hot and enjoy!

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