Zucchini Lasagna (Mediterranean-Style, Cheesy & Hearty)

🍆 Zucchini Lasagna (Mediterranean-Style, Cheesy & Hearty)

🌿 Description

This Zucchini Lasagna swaps traditional pasta for thinly sliced zucchini, layered with a savory tomato-herb sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese. The Mediterranean approach keeps it vegetable-forward, high in protein, and rich in heart-healthy olive oil, while still delivering that cozy, cheesy comfort we all love.

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📝 Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Zucchini

• 3–4 large zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin strips

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• ¼ tsp salt

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 500 g (18 oz) crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried basil

• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer

• 1½ cups ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese, blended)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini
   Lay zucchini slices on a baking sheet, lightly salt, and let sit 10 minutes.
   Pat dry to remove excess moisture. Optional: grill or roast 5 minutes for firmness.

2. Make the Sauce
   Heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté onion until soft.
   Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
   Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–15 minutes.

3. Mix Cheese Layer
   In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, and herbs.

4. Assemble the Lasagna
   In a baking dish:

   • Spread a thin layer of sauce

   • Add zucchini slices

   • Spread cheese mixture

   • Repeat layers
     Finish with sauce and remaining mozzarella.

5. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake at 190°C / 375°F for 30 minutes.
   Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. Rest & Serve
   Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

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🫒 Mediterranean Nutrition Highlights

• Low-carb & gluten-free

• High in calcium and protein

• Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes

• Olive oil supports heart health

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❓ Q & A

Q: How do I prevent watery zucchini lasagna?

Salt and dry the zucchini well, and let the lasagna rest before slicing.

Q: Can I add meat?

Yes! Add lean ground turkey, chicken, or lentils to the sauce.

Q: Is this good for diabetics?

Yes. It’s low in refined carbs and balanced with protein and healthy fats.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and bake when ready.

Q: Can I freeze zucchini lasagna?

Yes. Freeze baked portions tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Greek salad with olive oil & lemon

• Roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach

• Whole-grain bread (optional)