Try this spaghetti alternative for dinner tonight

Chances are even the pickiest eater in your house loves spaghetti or cheesy lasagna, and we found a great recipe you will want to try.

This dish from the Mayo Clinic offers three benefits: it’s packed with protein (for a small amount of calories), vegetables and is a crowd-pleaser.

And, if you don’t mention the vegetable part no one will even notice. Serve with mixed-grain bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Baked Ziti with Vegetables

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup uncooked ziti (about 2 ounces)
• 1 can (14 ounces) low-sodium tomatoes, drained (reserve 1/2 cup of the juice)
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup chopped broccoli
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Heat the oven to 375 F. Lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Fill a large pot 3/4 full with water and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (tender), 10 to 12 minutes, or according to the package directions. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
3. In a nonstick frying pan over medium heat, add the reserved juice from the canned tomatoes. Stir in the carrots, broccoli and green pepper. Saute the vegetables until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, basil, oregano and black pepper to the vegetable mixture. Cook over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a large bowl. Add the cooked pasta and shredded mozzarella cheese. Toss gently to mix. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake until the mixture is hot and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Remove the aluminum foil after 15 minutes. Divide the pasta among warmed individual bowls. Serve immediately.