Friday, November 28, 2008

Slow Cooked Ziti Casserole

Adapted from Fresh From the Vegetarian Slow Cooker by Robin Robertson

2 T olive oil
1 large onion, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
28 oz. canned crushed tomatoes
12 oz. package frozen vegetarian burger crumbles
1 cup hot water
1/2 cup dry red wine
1 T chopped fresh basil leaves, or 1 t dried
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
8 oz. ziti, cooked according to package directions until al dente, drained, and rinsed
2 T chopped fresh parsley leaves
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan or soy parmesan cheese

1. Heat the oil in a skillet on medium. Add onion, cover, and cook about five minutes (until onion is softened). Add the garlic, cooking an additional 30 seconds (until fragrant).

2. Place the onion mixture into a 4 quart crockpot, then add the tomatoes, meat crumbles, water, and wine. If using dried basil, add that too, as well as salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on low setting for 3 1/2 hours.

3. Add the cooked ziti, cover, and continue to cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes.

4. Stir in parsley. If using fresh basil, stir that in as well. Sprinkle with soy parmesan and serve.

5. SHARE!