🥒 Mediterranean Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara
Description
These Mediterranean Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts are a light yet satisfying low-carb alternative to traditional lasagna. Fresh zucchini ribbons are layered with creamy herbed ricotta, tangy marinara, and melted mozzarella — baked until bubbly and golden. It’s the perfect wholesome comfort dish that delivers the warmth of Italy with a nutritious twist from the Mediterranean diet.
🍅 Ingredients
For the Zucchini Layers:
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Ricotta Filling:
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (whole or part-skim)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh chopped basil)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Marinara:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Extra Parmesan, for serving
🧑🍳 Instructions
- Prep the Zucchini:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush zucchini slices lightly with olive oil and season with salt & pepper.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This removes excess moisture and prevents sogginess.
- Make the Ricotta Filling:
- In a bowl, mix together ricotta, Parmesan, egg, oregano, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and well combined.
- Prepare the Marinara:
- In a small saucepan, heat olive oil. Add red pepper flakes (optional) and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
- Assemble the Layers:
- Spread ½ cup marinara on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Add a layer of zucchini strips.
- Spread a layer of ricotta mixture over the zucchini.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with marinara on top.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
🍽️ Servings
Makes 4 servings
🌿 Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Calcium | 280 mg |
(Values will vary depending on brands and portion sizes.)
💚 Health Benefits
- Low-carb & gluten-free: Perfect for keto or low-carb diets.
- High in protein: Ricotta and mozzarella add muscle-supporting protein.
- Rich in antioxidants: Zucchini, tomato sauce, and herbs provide vitamins A, C, and lycopene.
- Heart-healthy fats: Olive oil and Mediterranean ingredients support cardiovascular health.
- Digestive friendly: Lighter than pasta-based lasagna and easier to digest.
💡 Chef’s Notes & Tips
- Avoid soggy zucchini: Bake or grill the slices first to remove excess water.
- Ricotta alternative: Substitute with cottage cheese for extra protein or vegan ricotta for plant-based diets.
- Extra veggies: Add sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or eggplant layers for more flavor.
- Storage: Keeps up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
- Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes! Assemble the dish (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Q: What can I use instead of ricotta?
A: You can use mascarpone, cottage cheese, or even tofu ricotta for a vegan version.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella alternatives.
Q: Is it suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes — portion into containers and refrigerate. It reheats well in the microwave or oven.
Q: What pairs well with this dish?
A: Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a full Mediterranean meal.