Preparing the Sauce and Pasta

Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions).
• Drain the pasta and toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Make the Marinara Sauce:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
• Sauté diced onions until translucent (about 3–4 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Stir in a can of crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
• Let the sauce simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Stir in cooked lentils, vegan sausage crumbles, or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

• The way you assemble the ziti makes a big difference in the final result. Layering ensures every bite is packed with flavor and creaminess:
• Start with a Base of Sauce: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
• Add a Layer of Pasta: Spoon half of the cooked pasta into the dish, spreading it evenly.
• Add Cheese Layers: Spread half of your cashew cream or vegan ricotta over the pasta.
• Sprinkle with shredded vegan mozzarella or your preferred cheese alternative.
• Repeat the Layers: Add another layer of marinara sauce, followed by the remaining pasta, and top with more cheese.
• Finish Strong: Top with a generous layer of marinara sauce and shredded vegan cheese. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with nutritional yeast and olive oil over the cheese.
• Baking Tips for the Perfect Texture
• Achieving the ideal baked ziti texture—crispy on top, creamy in the middle, and perfectly tender—requires careful baking:
• Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking.
• Cover for the First Half: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steam, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors without drying out.
• Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20–25 minutes with the foil on. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let the ziti rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.