🍕🥒 Mediterranean Zucchini Pizza Casserole

A Healthy, Guilt-Free Dinner the Whole Family Will Love!

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole gives you all the cheesy, saucy comfort of pizza — without the heavy crust. Fresh zucchini forms the base, layered with savory tomato sauce, lean protein, Mediterranean herbs, and just the right amount of melty cheese.

It’s low-carb, veggie-packed, and perfect for busy weeknights — especially when you want something satisfying but lighter.

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🌿 Why This Is Mediterranean-Inspired

• ✔ Fresh vegetables as the base

• ✔ Olive oil instead of processed fats

• ✔ Tomato-rich sauce (lycopene boost)

• ✔ Moderate cheese

• ✔ Lean protein option

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Zucchini Base

• 3 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds

• 1 teaspoon salt (to draw out moisture)

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Sauce Layer

• 1 ½ cups crushed tomatoes or pizza sauce (no added sugar)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon basil

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

Protein Layer (Optional but Recommended)

• 1 cup cooked lean ground turkey or chicken
  (You can skip for vegetarian version.)

Cheese & Toppings

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• ¼ cup sliced black olives

• ¼ cup diced bell peppers

• Fresh basil for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Zucchini (Important Step!)

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Lay zucchini slices on paper towels.

• Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit 10–15 minutes.

• Pat dry to remove excess moisture (prevents soggy casserole).

2️⃣ Pre-Roast the Zucchini

• Toss zucchini with olive oil.

• Arrange on baking sheet.

• Roast 10–12 minutes until slightly tender.

3️⃣ Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4️⃣ Assemble

In a lightly greased baking dish:

• Layer roasted zucchini

• Spread sauce evenly

• Add cooked turkey (if using)

• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan

• Add olives and bell peppers

5️⃣ Bake

Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6️⃣ Finish

Garnish with fresh basil and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• With a crisp cucumber salad

• Alongside arugula with lemon dressing

• With whole-grain garlic bread (optional)

• As a meal-prep lunch option

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🥗 Nutritional Highlights

• ✔ Low-carb alternative to pizza

• ✔ High in fiber

• ✔ Rich in antioxidants

• ✔ Balanced protein option

• ✔ Gluten-free

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❓ Q & A

Q1: How do I keep it from getting watery?

Salt and pat dry the zucchini before roasting — this is key!

Q2: Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip the turkey or add mushrooms and spinach instead.

Q3: Can I add more toppings?

Yes! Try artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta.

Q4: Can I freeze it?

Yes. Cool completely and freeze up to 2 months.

Q5: Is this keto-friendly?

Yes — especially if you skip bell peppers and keep sauce low-sugar.

Q6: Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free mozzarella and skip Parmesan.