Zucchini Lasagna Rolls offer a delightful alternative to traditional lasagna, especially for those seeking a healthier, low-carb option. These rolls are packed with the rich flavors of ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and the satisfying texture of zucchini strips. Additionally, they make for an impressive presentation at dinner parties or family gatherings. Dive into this recipe to enjoy a guilt-free twist on a classic comfort dish.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Zucchini Lasagna Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and trim the ends.
- Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Lay the zucchini strips on paper towels and sprinkle them with salt to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, then blot them dry with another paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Zucchini Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On each zucchini strip, spread a generous tablespoon of the ricotta mixture.
- Roll up each zucchini strip tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Marinara Sauce
- Pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the baking dish to create a base layer.
- Place the zucchini rolls on top of the marinara sauce, snuggling them closely together.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the arranged zucchini rolls.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the zucchini rolls.
Step 6: Bake the Lasagna Rolls
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
- Let the zucchini lasagna rolls cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve warm.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
- Pairings: Serve the zucchini lasagna rolls with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Fresh basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese can enhance the presentation and flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover zucchini lasagna rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze individual rolls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful Notes and Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Helpful Notes
- Avoid Overlapping: Ensure that the zucchini strips don’t overlap much in the baking dish to cook evenly.
- Extra Moisture: Blotting the zucchini slices well is crucial; excessive moisture can make the dish watery.
Tips from Chefs
- Gordon Ramsay: “”For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or ground meat in the ricotta mixture.””
- Rachael Ray: “”Opt for fresh, firm zucchinis to make slicing easier and achieve the best texture.””
- Ina Garten: “”Using homemade marinara sauce can significantly enhance the overall flavor of the dish.””
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like ricotta variations, cottage cheese, or even goat cheese.
- Is there a vegan version of this dish?
- Yes, you can use vegan ricotta and mozzarella cheese substitutes and omit the egg.
- Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
- Absolutely, yellow squash can be used in the same manner as zucchini for a similar taste and texture.
- How can I make this dish spicy?
- Add red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the lasagna rolls a day in advance and refrigerate them. Bake when ready to serve.
- What if I don’t have a mandoline slicer?
- A sharp knife works fine; just try to slice the zucchinis as evenly as possible.
- Can I add meat to the recipe?
- Yes, cooked ground beef or sausage can be added to the marinara sauce or layered with the ricotta mixture.
- Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil?
- Covering the dish with foil initially helps prevent the cheese from burning and ensures the rolls cook evenly.
- Can I use different herbs?
- Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs such as thyme, oregano, or even fresh parsley.
- Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
- It already is! Just make sure your marinara sauce doesn’t contain any gluten ingredients.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy twist on a classic, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with various spices, herbs, and cheese combinations. Happy cooking!”