COUNSELING FOR INDIVIDUALS READY TO MAKE A CHANGE IN THEIR HEALTH!
Zucchini Lasagna RECIPE
This flavorful, easy-to-make Zucchini Lasagna combines wholesome, fresh ingredients for a hearty main course that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and health, ready to impress with minimal effort. Ideal for meal prep or family dinners, this dish reheats beautifully, making it a versatile and convenient option for any occasion.
Zucchini Lasagna Recipe
Prep: 30 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
This Zucchini Lasagna is a flavorful, hearty, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it offers rich, satisfying layers in every bite. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite!
Kitchen Tools Needed
Spatula
9x13-inch casserole or baking dish
Cutting Board
Aluminum Foil
Oven Mitts
Ingredients
For the zucchini layers:
- 3-4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the meat sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the cheese filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Prepare the zucchini slices:
- Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
- Lay the slices out on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out moisture. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, then pat dry with more paper towels.
Cook the meat sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Add the ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer on low for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the cheese mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, basil, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
Assemble the lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Layer zucchini slices to cover the bottom (overlapping slightly).
- Spread a third of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini slices, followed by a third of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers (zucchini, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella) until ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
Bake:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil (to prevent excessive browning) and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Rest and serve:
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes to allow it to set before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition Information: Here’s an estimate of the nutrition facts for 1 serving of zucchini lasagna (based on 8 servings per 9x13-inch casserole dish). The calculations can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.
Serving: 1 serving, Calories: 290 kcal, Carbohydrates: 8g, Protein: 22g, Fat: 18g, Saturated fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 80mg, Sodium: 580mg, Fiber: 2g.
Benefits of zucchini lasagna
Quick and Easy:
- Requires minimal prep and is ready in no time, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Low-Carb
- By replacing traditional lasagna noodles with zucchini, this dish significantly reduces carbohydrate content.
Protein-Packed:
- The ground meat, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese provide a good source of protein, which helps build and repair muscles and keeps you feeling full longer.
Meal Prep-Friendly
- This lasagna stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.
This dish is not just comforting and delicious, but it also supports balanced nutrition by providing a hearty mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while being low in carbs and rich in essential vitamins and minerals.
Check Out Our Other Italian Recipes
Comforting and Delicious
These mushroom-spinach stuffed shells combine wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients into a dish that’s as nourishing as it is comforting. Fresh basil and a hint of garlic infuse the filling with vibrant flavor, while a homemade tomato sauce adds a bright, tangy touch. Whether you’re serving a cozy family dinner or treating yourself to a satisfying meal, these stuffed shells are sure to deliver comfort, nourishment, and deliciousness in every bite!
Nourishing and Light
This Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic dish, offering all the flavor without the extra calories. By baking instead of frying, it’s lighter but still deliciously crispy and cheesy. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare, packed with protein, and pairs wonderfully with a side of veggies or pasta. A nourishing comfort food everyone will love!
Classic and Nutritious
This Chicken Florentine Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, whole wheat penne, fresh spinach, and a rich tomato-cream sauce. Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, it’s a comforting yet nutritious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress with its classic Italian-inspired flavors.
Nutritious and flavorful
This Lentil Bolognese is a hearty, flavorful, and protein-packed vegetarian twist on the classic Italian dish. Made with red lentils, crushed walnuts, and a rich tomato-based sauce, it delivers a satisfying, meaty texture without any meat. Perfectly paired with pasta, it’s a wholesome, plant-based option that’s nutritious, delicious, and great for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. A must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful vegetarian comfort food!
Quick and Delicious
This Pasta with Puttanesca Sauce is a delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines nutrient-rich ingredients like salmon, olive oil, and olives for a boost of heart-healthy fats. Paired with cherry tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, it delivers vibrant flavors and wholesome nutrition. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights while keeping you satisfied with its balanced and nourishing profile.
Guilt-free Indulgence
This Eggplant Parmesan is a lighter, healthier take on the classic comfort dish, perfect for everyone to enjoy. Baked instead of fried, the crispy eggplant is layered with marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, and Parmesan for a flavorful, satisfying meal. With fresh herbs and a golden, bubbly topping, it’s a deliciously wholesome option for family dinners or special occasions!