Description
Thin slices of zucchini are rolled around a creamy ricotta filling, layered with marinara sauce, and baked with melted mozzarella for a comforting low-carb Italian-inspired dinner.
Ingredients
Zucchini
- 3 large zucchini
Cheese Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce and Garnish
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the involtini later.
- Prepare Zucchini Slices: Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline or vegetable peeler for even and flexible pieces.
- Cook Zucchini Slices: Grill or roast the zucchini slices for 2–3 minutes until they become flexible enough to roll without breaking.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well to create a smooth, flavorful filling.
- Roll Zucchini: Spread a spoonful of the cheese filling onto each zucchini strip and roll tightly to form individual involtini.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a baking dish to create a flavorful base.
- Arrange Rolls: Place the zucchini rolls seam-side down in the baking dish on top of the marinara sauce layer.
- Top and Bake: Cover the zucchini rolls with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden and melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Pat zucchini slices dry to reduce excess moisture and avoid sogginess.
- Add spinach to the ricotta filling for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian