Description
Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara is a nourishing, vegetarian dish that features layers of thinly sliced zucchini, creamy ricotta, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella. Baked until bubbly and tender, it delivers classic Italian flavors in a lighter, low-carb format, making it an excellent option for family dinners, meal prep, or a flavorful side. Enjoy it fresh or prepare ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil for garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice zucchinis lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices.
- Brush both sides of zucchini slices with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Layer half the zucchini slices in the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half the ricotta cheese over the zucchini layer.
- Top with half the marinara sauce and half the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat with remaining zucchini, ricotta, marinara, and mozzarella.
- Sprinkle dried oregano over the top layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the dish is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives. Yellow squash works as a substitute for zucchini. To enhance protein, add cooked lentils between layers. If the zucchini releases too much water, pat slices dry before assembling. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in oven for best texture. Undercooked zucchini can be avoided by cutting slices uniformly thin, and bake until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of dish
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg