Creamy Zucchini & Spinach RigatoniJoyce Holste
3 c (1/2 of 16 oz pkg) rigatoni pasta, uncooked
1 t oil
1 zucchini, sliced--if small, use 2
½ lb sliced fresh mushrooms
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 T flour
¼ t each dried basil leaves, dried oregano leaves & crushed red pepper (optional)
1 c fat free reduced sodium chicken broth
4 oz (1/2 pkg of 8 oz pkg) Philadelphia Neufchatel Cheese, cubed
1 pkg (6 oz) baby spinach leaves
¼ c grated parmesan cheese
1 ½ c shredded mozzarella cheese
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Cook pasta as directed on pkg, omitting salt. Meanwhile, heat oil in very large skillet on medium heat. Add zucchini, mushrooms & garlic; cook 3-4 mins. or until zucchini is crisp-tender, stirring frequently. Add flour and seasonings; cook and stir 1 min. or until thickened, stirring frequently. Add Neufchatel cheese; cook and stir 2-3 mins or until melted. Drain pasta. Add to zucchini mixture along with the spinach, parmesan cheese and ½ cup mozzarella, mix lightly. Spoon into 2 qt. casserole sprayed with cooking spray, top with remaining mozzarella. Bake 10 mins or until mozzarella is melted.