Dive into a garden-fresh take on a classic comfort food with our Zesty Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups. This innovative recipe swaps traditional pasta for thinly sliced zucchini, rolling them up with a rich and savory filling of cheese and herbs, all nestled under a blanket of tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. Perfect for those seeking a low-carb alternative without sacrificing flavor, these roll-ups are a vibrant, nutritious twist on lasagna that will dazzle your dinner table.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 2 roll-ups
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
Ingredients
- 4 large zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 24 thin strips
- 250g (8.8 oz) ricotta cheese
- 100g (3.5 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 30g (1 oz) fresh spinach, chopped
- 5g (1 tsp) garlic powder
- 5g (1 tsp) dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 300g (10.5 oz) marinara sauce
- 200g (7 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into 24 thin strips using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. Lay the slices on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto each zucchini strip. Roll up tightly and place seam side down in a baking dish coated with a thin layer of marinara sauce.
- Top and Bake: Once all roll-ups are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Ensure the zucchini slices are thin enough to roll easily without breaking but thick enough to hold the filling.
- Letting the zucchini strips sit with salt and then patting them dry helps to remove excess moisture, preventing the roll-ups from becoming soggy.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a layer of cooked ground beef or turkey between the cheese mixture and the zucchini strip before rolling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute vegan ricotta and mozzarella cheeses and use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) instead of a regular egg.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm throughout.
Can I freeze Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Yes, these roll-ups freeze well. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
As the last roll-up is savored, and the plates are cleared, take a moment to appreciate the joy of sharing a meal that's both nourishing and delightfully innovative. These Zesty Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups bring a touch of creativity to the table, proving that healthy eating doesn't mean compromising on flavor or comfort. Here's to meals that inspire, satisfy, and bring us together—bon appétit!