Hidden Veggie Marinara Pasta

→ SERVES 8

Prep Time: Total Time: 5 mins 25 mins

Pasta

1 lb. (450 g) penne pasta

2½ cups (625 mL) water

2 oz. (60 g) mozzarella cheese

2 oz. (60 g) fresh Parmesan cheese

Sauce

¼ cup (60 mL) water

1 tbsp (15 mL) Italian Seasoning Mix

1 tsp (5 mL) salt

4 garlic cloves, peeled

1 cup (250 mL) carrots peeled, cut into chunks (about 2 medium carrots)

1 small zucchini, cut into chunks

Add-Ins

1 can (28 oz./750 g) diced tomatoes, undrained

1. Combine the pasta and water in the Rockcrok ® Dutch Oven. Cover and microwave for 11–13 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring halfway through cooking.

2. Meanwhile, for the sauce, add the ingredients, in the order listed, to the Deluxe Cooking Blender. Replace and lock the lid. Turn the wheel to select the Heated Puree setting; press the wheel to start.

3. When the timer is up, press CANCEL. Remove the vented lid cap and carefully add the tomatoes. Replace the cap and blend on speed 2 of the Custom Blend setting for 30 seconds.*

4. Place the oven rack 6-8” (15-20 cm) from the heat source. Preheat the broiler.

5. Grate the mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese.

6. Pour the sauce over the cooked and drained pasta; stir to combine.** Top the pasta with the grated cheese and broil for 3–4 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Cook’s Tips:

For a thicker sauce, drain the tomatoes before adding them to the puree.

You can add grilled chicken to this recipe. Grill 1 lb. (450 g) of chicken tenderloins on the Nonstick Double Burner Grill over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side. Then, thinly slice the chicken and stir it into the pasta.

Instead of carrots and zucchini, you can use 2 cups of any vegetables you have on hand. Make a pasta bar featuring your favorite stir-ins like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, black pitted olives, basil, artichoke hearts, feta cheese or whatever else you like.

Safety Tips:

* The pitcher will be hot during and after cooking. Do not touch the hot glass.

** Use the pitcher handle and helper handle to tilt and lift the pitcher up from the base. Remove the lid away from your body and use the pitcher handle to pour the food.

Please note: The Large Serving Bowl shown in the image above is not broiler-safe.