Baked Ziti with Hidden Vegetables - Taste Spread

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of sugar (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• 1/2 cup ziti pasta
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach)
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil for greasing