Plant-Based Meatballs with Rigatoni and Zucchini
Can use whole wheat rigatoni; add 5 minutes to your cooking time. Can change up vegetable; add some tomatoes or broccoli.
- Contains Wheat
Ingredients
LEVEL 1 (BOTTOM OF POT)
- 1 box (16 ounces) rigatoni
- 4 cups 4 cups unsalted vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 jar (6 1/2 ounces) sun-dried tomato pesto, reserved
LEVEL 2 (BOTTOM LAYER OF RACK)
- 3 cups zucchini, cut in 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut in 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
LEVEL 3 (TOP LAYER OF RACK)
- 16 frozen plant-based meatballs
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
TOPPINGS (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Chopped fresh basil
- Shredded Parmesan cheese
- Aluminum Foil
- Deluxe Reversible Rack (Both Layers)
- Ninja® Multi-Purpose Pan or 8-inch round baking pan
Instructions
Step 1
Place all Level 1 ingredients in the pot except the sun-dried tomato pesto, and stir until combined.
Step 2
In a large bowl, add all Level 2 ingredients and toss until evenly coated. Place vegetables in the Multi-Purpose Pan. Place the bottom layer of the Deluxe Reversible Rack in the lower position, place the pan on the rack, then place the rack in the pot.
Step 3
Slide the Deluxe Layer through the lower layer’s handles and cover with aluminum foil. Coat the plant-based meatballs with oil, then place on the Deluxe Layer.
Step 4
Close the lid and move the slider to STEAMCRISP. Select STEAM & CRISP, set temperature to 385°F, and set time to 32 minutes. Press START/STOP to begin cooking (PrE will display for approx. 18 minutes as the unit steams, then timer will start counting down).
Step 5
When cooking is complete, remove the rack with meatballs and pan. Add the sun-dried tomato pesto into the pot with the rigatoni and stir until well-combined.
Step 6
Add the zucchini mixture to the pasta and stir the mixture a few times to disperse the vegetables. Pour the pasta mixture into a large bowl and top with meatballs. Garnish with chopped parsley, basil, and Parmesan cheese, if desired.