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Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe


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4 from 22 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups provide a lighter, delicious alternative to traditional lasagna by using thinly sliced zucchini filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This Italian-American inspired dish is perfect for a healthy, low-carb dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.


Ingredients

Zucchini

  • 3 large zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin strips

Cheese Mixture

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce and Garnish

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (divided)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting and baking the zucchini roll-ups.
  2. Slice Zucchini: Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips, ideally using a mandoline to ensure even thickness without making them too thin to avoid falling apart.
  3. Salt and Drain: Lightly salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to prevent sogginess.
  4. Roast Zucchini: Place the zucchini slices on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes until slightly softened, making them easier to roll.
  5. Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella (1/2 cup), Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
  6. Fill Zucchini Strips: Spread about 1–2 tablespoons of the cheese and spinach filling evenly over each roasted zucchini slice.
  7. Roll Up: Carefully roll each zucchini slice tightly with the filling inside.
  8. Prepare Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
  9. Arrange Rolls: Place the zucchini roll-ups seam side down on the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
  10. Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the arranged zucchini rolls, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
  11. Bake: Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
  12. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil, and serve warm with optional sides like a green salad or garlic bread.

Notes

  • Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin zucchini slices to ensure consistent cooking and easy rolling.
  • Do not slice the zucchini too thin, or they might tear or fall apart during rolling.
  • For a heartier version, add cooked ground beef or turkey in the ricotta filling.
  • Drain the zucchini slices well after salting to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
  • Pair the zucchini roll-ups with a fresh green salad or crispy garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American