Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups are a healthier, gluten-free alternative to traditional lasagna, combining the comforting flavors of lasagna with the lightness of zucchini. This dish replaces pasta sheets with thin slices of zucchini, making it perfect for those looking for a low-carb option or simply wanting to add more vegetables to their meals. The zucchini rolls are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with a savory mushroom sauce, and baked with melted mozzarella cheese on top. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the classic lasagna flavors without the heavy carbs. Whether you are preparing a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Zucchini Roll-Ups:
- 4 large zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise (using a mandoline works best for even slices)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
- 1 small sweet yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, chopped well
- 1 teaspoon dry Italian seasoning
- 16 ounces high-quality marinara sauce
- Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Ricotta Filling:
- 1/3 cup organic ricotta cheese
- 1 free-range egg
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Preparing the Zucchini
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Lay the zucchini slices on a large cutting board. Lightly sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the flavor, and brush them lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Place the zucchini slices in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the slices are tender but still firm enough to roll. Allow the zucchini to cool for handling.
Preparing the Mushroom Sauce
- While the zucchini is baking, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the finely diced onion and chopped mushrooms, cooking for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions are soft and the mushrooms release their moisture.
- Stir in the dry Italian seasoning and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Pour in 3/4 of the marinara sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
Preparing the Ricotta Filling
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and freshly chopped parsley. Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Stir the mixture well until it is smooth and fully combined. This will create a creamy and flavorful filling for your zucchini roll-ups.
Assembling the Zucchini Roll-Ups
- Spread a small amount of the remaining marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish or an ovenproof cast iron skillet. This ensures the zucchini rolls don’t stick to the dish.
- Lay one zucchini slice on a flat surface. Spread about 2 spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the top of the zucchini, followed by a spoonful of the mushroom sauce.
- Carefully roll the zucchini slice around the ricotta and mushroom filling, and place the roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining zucchini slices.
- Pour any remaining mushroom marinara sauce over the top of the zucchini rolls.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the rolls.
Baking the Zucchini Roll-Ups
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving the Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups
Serve the zucchini lasagna roll-ups hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. These roll-ups pair beautifully with a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Helpful Tips
- Zucchini Texture: Ensure the zucchini slices are thin enough to roll easily but not too thin that they fall apart. Using a mandoline slicer will give you uniform slices that cook evenly.
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled the day before and stored in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
- Cheese Substitutes: If you prefer a different cheese, you can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta or opt for a vegan cheese to make the dish dairy-free.
- Veggie Additions: Add other vegetables to the ricotta filling, such as chopped spinach, roasted bell peppers, or even grated carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Low-Carb Alternative: This recipe is already low in carbs, thanks to the zucchini, but for even fewer carbs, you can omit the ricotta and instead use extra mushrooms or leafy greens like spinach to bulk up the dish.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version, substitute the ricotta with cashew cheese or another plant-based alternative. Skip the egg or use a flax egg, and opt for vegan mozzarella to keep the dish dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. If you want to add extra protein or fiber, you can layer quinoa or a grain of your choice at the bottom of the baking dish before assembling the roll-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Yes, these roll-ups freeze wonderfully. After assembling, cover the baking dish with foil and freeze. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30 minutes or until heated through.
Can I use other types of squash or vegetables in place of zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash or even thinly sliced eggplant can be used in place of zucchini. Just make sure to slice them thinly and bake them until tender so that they hold together while rolling.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, this recipe can be made ahead. Assemble the roll-ups and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This will give the flavors even more time to meld together.
How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too watery?
To avoid watery zucchini, make sure to bake the slices before assembling the rolls. This process helps draw out some of the moisture from the zucchini, preventing it from releasing too much water during baking.
Conclusion
Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious and healthy take on traditional lasagna, offering the same comforting flavors but in a lighter, low-carb version. With a creamy ricotta filling, savory mushroom sauce, and melted mozzarella on top, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your dietary preferences, and it can be made ahead for convenience. Whether you’re looking for a new dinner idea or a creative way to enjoy zucchini, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!