This week's meal includes Baked Ziti, Caesar Salad, and Lemon Cheesecake. The Baked Ziti will be extra special because I'm using DSM Pasta Co.'s fresh rigatoni. DSM Pasta Co. makes the most beautiful handmade pasta. I'm so excited to share their expertly made pasta with you!

The Baked Ziti is a straightforward vegetarian pasta dish that is as comforting as it is delicious. I make it by layering pasta, made from scratch, slow-cooked tomato sauce, and a ricotta cheese blend. I simmer the tomato sauce to develop a deep, sweet tomato flavor that perfectly cuts the ricotta cheese's richness. The cheese is a blend of ricotta, whole milk mozzarella, and Parmigiano Reggiano. It's smooth, melty, and a little salty. It's perfect. It's baked until the pasta has absorbed some of the sauce and the cheese is melted and bubbling. It's perfect and delicious.

Caesar Salad is always a crowd-pleaser, and this one does not disappoint. There is crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, creamy dressing, and salty parmesan. This version is vegetarian. It's the most perfect and delicious salad.

Lemon Cheesecake is just the right way to end this meal. It's a no-bake cheesecake that's tart, creamy, and light. The citrusy freshness is the perfect ending to this heavy Italian dinner.

I hope you enjoy this week's meal as much as I do. Next week we'll be celebrating my first anniversary! The meal includes Beef Bourguignon, Mashed Potatoes, Leafy Green Salad, and French Macarons.