Mmmmm ... Baked Ziti

It's freezing in our house! As I look outside at this rainy weather, I've started to think about dinner ... a warm one at that. Baked ziti sounds like it will do just the trick for a day like today!

You've probably learned that I love the Food Network. This is another great recipe from their website that is so easy, and tastes so fresh. The quick tomato sauce is a treat ... if a tomato sauce can be. I think you'll really love it!
Ingredients:1 pound dried baked ziti (I buy wheat)kosher salt1 pound mozzarella 3/4 cups grated parmesan1/2 teaspoon black pepperpinch red pepper flakes quick tomato sauce, includes:
-2 tablespoons olive oil
-1 pound italian sausage casings removed (I use chicken sausage)
-1/4 onion
-3 cloves chopped garlic
-28 oz can whole, peeled, canned tomatoes in puree - chopped
-dash of thyme, basil, salt, and pepper
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400.
Cook ziti according to package. Needs to be al dente (tender but slightly firm)
For quick tomato sauce, heat oil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook sausage until beginning to brown. Add onion and garlic stirring until lightly browned. Add tomatoes and herbs and bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover and simmer. The long you can simmer the better - at least 10 minutes minimum. Salt and pepper to taste.
Toss cooked pasta with quick tomato sauce, mozzarella, half of parmesan, and both peppers. Add remaining mozzeralla and parmesan to top of dish.
Cook in 9 x 13 baking pan for 30 minutes. Great to freeze or cook immediately!