Baked Ziti

Here’s a tasty, healthy version of the Italian classic. For more robust flavor, add crushed fennel seeds. For a meaty version, add lean ground beef to the sauce. This is a family favorite that the kids will love. All portions of this recipe can be  Ingredients 3 sprays cooking spray 1 pound uncooked pasta, Rigatoni or Penne 3/4 pound part skim ricotta cheese 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, or more to taste 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 4 cups marinara sauce, divided 1/2 pound shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup basil, julienne cut for garnish 2 tsp Standard Process protein powder Instructions Preheat oven to 350* Coat bottom and sides of lasagna pan with cooking spray Cook pasta according to package directions  rinse with cool water and drain While pasta is cooking, in a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, red pepper flakes, 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese and 1/3 cup marinara sauce. To assemble ziti, spoon 1/2 cup sauce on bottom of prepared pan; top with half of pasta in an even layer.  Evenly spread pasta with ricotta mixture; cover with half of remaining sauce.  Top with remaining pasta and spoon remaining sauce over top; sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining tablespoon Parmesan.  Bake until cheese melts and is browned, about 20 to 30 minutes.  Allow ziti to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing into 12 pieces.